Credit: Centre for Ageing Better via Pexels
Golfing is a fun activity, full of fresh air and camaraderie. There’s something about the rhythm of the swing and the focus on your next swing, that makes golf relaxing and enjoyable.
It has been described as a lifetime sport, and this is true for many reasons. It’s played by countless people around the globe, from all walks of life, ranging from 4-year-olds to 104-year-olds!
Millions of older adults in Canada enjoy the game to gain multiple benefits.
Here are a few reasons why more and more older adults are breaking out their clubs, balls, and carts and hitting the fairways.
#1 Physical Exercise
You can pick the type of intensity for your golfing activity and enjoy the activity that matches your physical needs.
Playing golf is great for an older adult’s endurance, vital organ health, and flexibility. It’s also an excellent way to engage with friends and family of all ages because there are no age restrictions!
Here are some physical benefits of golfing for older adults:
- Improved heart rate and blood circulation.
- Strengthening leg muscles.
- Firmer arms and shoulders.
- Better walking and standing ability.
- More grip strength.
- Sharper cognitive processing.
- Greater balance.
#2 Socializing and Reducing Stress
Golf can be a great stress relief when you’re an older adult. It allows you the chance to enjoy physical activity while you take in the fresh air. And there’s nothing like swinging a golf club to convert pent-up emotions into pure joy.
Golf is also a great way to socialize with others, talk about fond memories, and strengthen bonds with friends.
Some older adults also report that golf enhances their ability to concentrate!
#3 Releasing Endorphins
Some types of physical activity release chemicals in the brain called Endorphins. These chemicals reduce anxiety and improve mood. Golfing is an excellent way for older adults to release endorphins because it is a long yet low-intensity activity.
How Retirees Can Access Golf Courses
In the right retirement community, playing golf can be quite convenient. For example, the highly distinguished Lewis Estates senior homes in Edmonton are close to a gorgeous championship golf course that welcomes older adults. Other world-class amenities offered by the upscale retirement community include:
- On-site Aquatic Centre, fitness room and exercise classes.
- Equipment-accessible bathrooms with walk-in showers
- Pet Friendly
- Spacious one and two-bedroom suites.
- One bedroom plus den options.
- Private Balcony or patio attached to each suite.
- Individual Climate Controls.
- Kitchenettes including microwave & full sized fridge.
- Independent living, assisted living, and memory care facilities.
- Month to Month lease agreements available.
Tips for Older Adults to Learn Golfing
If you haven’t golfed in a while or have never golfed, consider taking lessons before you take up the sport again. Learning the right technique will help you improve your game and reduce the risk of injury too.
As with any activity, you should warm up for golfing with some light stretching of your shoulders, arms, back, and legs. Stretching before a physical activity mitigates the risk of hurting your muscles and joints.
Please also take care of your skin with the right products before a day out in the sun. Keep a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated. Take the appropriate steps to prepare for your golfing session to enjoy the activity and the fresh air.
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