Understanding the motivation, meanings and benefits of participation in the sport of golf: a phenomenological study of men aged 60 years and above

• Main Author: Hasmah, Mohamad Yusoff
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English; English
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General)
• Online Access: http://ur.aeu.edu.my/52/1/Understanding%20The%20Motivation%2C%20Meanings%20And%20Benefits%20of%20Participation%20In%20The%20Sport%20of%20Golf%3B%20A%20Phenomenological%20Study%20of%20Men%20Aged%2060%20Years%20And%20Above.pdf; http://ur.aeu.edu.my/52/6/Hasmah%20Mohamad%20Yusoff%20-%20Understanding%20the%20motivation%2C%20meanings%20and%20benefits%20of%20participation%20in%20the%20sport%20of%20golf%20a%20phenomenological%20study%20of%20men%20aged%2060%20years%20and%20above.pdf; http://ur.aeu.edu.my/52/; https://online.fliphtml5.com/sppgg/uimo/?1596506335852

The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of older adults, specifically men 60 years and older, who play golf. This study focusses on (1) their motivations to consistently and actively engage in golf, (2) what playing golf means to them and (3) the benefits they derive from playing golf. This qualitative research adopted the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with 5 men between the ages of 60 and 73 years of age who met the inclusion criteria. Interviews were conducted in the premises of the clubhouse where the participants felt comfortable and lasted between 40 — 60 minutes!' The interviews were audio taped and transcribed verbatim for data analysis. The emerging themes for motivations to regularly play golf were (1) the exercise, (2) the friends and (3) the enjoyment and fun. Similarly, three themes emerged on the meanings for participation being (1) a routine, (2) look forward to playing and (3) good friends. Three themes also emerged on the benefits derived, them being the (1) physical benefits, (2) social benefits and (3) mental benefits. All the participants expressed that their physical and mental health was of great importance to them and that playing golf regularly and walking on the golf course provided them with the exercise to remain and maintain their physical health. This sport stimulated and engaged their mind, keeping them mentally alert and active. Additionally, the social aspects of the game, is also an important element and a major factor that contribute to having good mental health. The results from this study illuminates the importance to participate in sports and physical activities regularly into old age, for better quality of life and successful aging and also as a strategy for self-care.