Perceived Social Health Benefits Among Participants in a Countywide Senior Chair Volleyball Program

ABSTRACT

This study examined older adults' (≥ 55 years of age) perceived social health benefits associated with participating in a county-wide chair volleyball program. Of the 300 individuals who had participated in the program, 222 completed a 22-item survey on their perceived social health benefits (74% response rate). Results indicated that the largest benefits were that the program provides them with a challenging activity, makes them feel like they are part of a group, and helps them make new friends. Females and those very/extremely competitive felt program participation was significantly more beneficial to their social health than did males and those somewhat/not competitive. Findings illustrate the positive effects that participation in a chair volleyball program can have on the social health of older adults.

KEYWORDS:

• Social health
• older adults
• group physical activity programs