The Impact Model of Sports Community on the Well-Being of Older Adults

Within the context of the Healthy China initiative, this study aims to explore the impact of participation in sports communities on the well-being of older adults and to develop a conceptual model to elucidate this relationship. This study employed a literature review and questionnaire survey to collect data. A combination of random and convenience sampling was used to recruit 631 older adults. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software. The structural equation model exhibits a high degree of fit; The impact of older adults’ experience of sports benefits in sports communities on their well-being is statistically significant (β = .53, p < .001), Similarly, the influence of sports community culture (β = .43, p < .001), community social networks (β = .26, p < .001), and community belongingness (β = .19, p < .01) on well-being is also statistically significant. The experience of exercise benefits, community culture, community social networks, and community belongingness in sports communities can enhance the physical and mental health and overall well-being of older adults. These factors also help them maintain a positive mindset. Therefore, it is recommended that older adults actively participate in sports and community activities.