Fifteenth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

Twenty percent of the Canadian population will be age 65 years and older by the year 2030, which is expected to considerably increase healthcare expenditures. Higher levels of physical activity can help to offset aging-related decline in physical function, delaying the need for health interventions. Although older Canadians exhibit low overall engagement in physical activities, there is a notable surge in sport participation among people 65+ years of age. Changing perspectives about aging may be contributing to the increased popularity of sport participation later in life as healthier older adults look for ways to continue to participate in sport. This study delves into the dynamics of competitive sport engagement among a group of adults age 65+ years to understand its role in facilitating healthy aging. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with older adults born between 1946-1965 who regularly participate in competitive sport. The data captured thick descriptions, personal beliefs, and meanings of the role of sport in the lives of participants. Major themes derived from the data include the importance of a sport-for-life mentality and the desire of older athletes for increased opportunities for meaningful competition. Participant narratives provide evidence of continued participation in competitive sport which challenge societal expectations of aging, historically associated with decline, reframing older ages as a new phase of life which may provide opportunities for enhanced health and personal growth. Further, findings suggest that social relationships, daily structure, and behaviours that are a result of competitive sport participation, may enhance the aging experience for older adults.