Perceived Benefits of Curling in Older Canadian Women

With an increasing proportion of older adults in Canada, factors that can facilitate healthy aging, such as physical activity and by extension sport, should be considered. Curling is a popular sport, enjoyed particularly by older adults, and as such this study sought to examine the experiences of older Canadian women who were regular participants in this sport. Seventeen women were interviewed to explore their perceptions of curling participation at a later stage of life. Participants had a nuanced view of aging in that they simultaneously resisted, accepted, and ultimately redefined aging. These women uniquely identified the inclusive nature of the sport and the level of strategy required to find sporting success. Furthermore, both competition and the social aspect of the sport were highlighted as major drivers of participation and integral to the sporting experience. The results of this study extend our understanding of the potential value of sport for older adults.