An Analysis of the Influencing Factors on the Leisure Choices of China's Elderly Sports Population

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jmpe.202418202

Author(s)

Jinqiao Du

Affiliation(s)

Faculty of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China

Abstract

The increasing aging population in China has drawn significant attention to the quality of life in the elderly, particularly about their leisure pursuits. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the leisure choices of China's elderly sports population, with a focus on physical activities. Through comprehensive literature review and field surveys, the research identifies the multifaceted elements that shape the elderly's decisions to engage in sport-related leisure activities. The findings indicate that health status, socioeconomic status, accessibility to sports facilities, social support, and cultural attitudes towards aging and exercise play pivotal roles. Health benefits, including improved mobility, disease prevention, and mental well-being, emerge as the primary motivator. However, limitations in financial resources and lack of public sport facilities act as deterrents. The study also highlights the positive impact of supportive social networks and cultural shifts that encourage active aging. Policy implications are discussed, emphasizing the need for more age-friendly sports infrastructure and programs that cater to the diverse needs of the elderly. This research contributes to the understanding of leisure sports participation among the aging Chinese population, providing insights for stakeholders to enhance the well-being of the elderly through informed policy-making and community support initiatives.

Keywords

Elderly Sports Population; Leisure Choices; Aging in China; Active Aging; Sports Participation

References

[1] Zhang, L., & Wang, Y. (2021). Physical activity and sports participation among Chinese seniors: Trends and health implications. Journal of Geriatric Sports and Health, 10(2), 113-130. [2] Li, H., Zhou, X., & Chen, X. (2020). The impact of sports facility accessibility on older adults’ sports participation in China. Aging and Society, 35(4), 845-865. [3] Wong, A., & Tan, S. L. (2022). Encouraging active aging: Policy interventions for sports participation in the elderly. Journal of Public Health Policy, 43(1), 92-107. [4] Liu, J., & Gao, L. (2019). Safety considerations for elderly fitness programs in urban China. Sports Medicine International, 31(6), 456-464. [5] Chen, M., & Li, F. (2021). The role of interests and hobbies in the sports participation decisions of Chinese seniors. Leisure Studies, 40(3), 381-396. [6] Sun, W., & Huang, Y. (2020). Assessing the recreational sports consumption levels of the Chinese elderly population. Journal of Aging Research and Economics, 12(4), 250-268. [7] Xu, P., & Zhang, J. (2018). Development and validation of an optimal evaluation model for elderly leisure choices in sports. Chinese Journal of Sports Science and Technology, 24(7), 54-65. [8] Zhao, D., & Chen, G. (2022). Understanding the importance of safety in physical activities for the elderly: A statistical analysis. International Journal of Injury Prevention, 18(2), 177-189. [9] Lee, K., Park, N., & Kim, D. (2021). Adapting sports facilities for the aging population: A case study from South Korea. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(9), 4719. [10] Tang, S., & Hu, L. (2019). Educational strategies to enhance safety awareness in Chinese elderly participants in sports activities. Educational Gerontology, 45(8), 507-519.