Engendering social capital through a leisure club for middle‐aged and older women: implications for individual and community health and well‐being

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the emergent evidence of social capital in a leisure club for middle‐aged and older women. We analysed 1693 members' responses to an online query about meaningful experiences garnered through participation in the Red Hat Society®. Our analysis revealed aspects of social capital, including bonding and bridging opportunities, social support, sisterhood and civic engagement. Members had a sense of community and this community intersected within the public spheres of the larger society through mechanisms such as Society‐led celebrations and volunteerism. We connect these aspects of social capital to issues of individual and community health and well‐being.

Keywords:

• social clubs
• social support
• civic engagement