Meaning of Playing Park Golf among Older Adults with Physical Disabilities : A Salutogenic Approach

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of older adults with physical disabilities participating in park golf in South Korea. Specifically, this study investigates the meaning of their involvement through the lens of Salutogenesis theory, focusing on the Sense of Coherence (SOC) and its impact on their psychological well-being. Method: Employing a phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with eight park golf players who are older adults with physical disabilities (mean age = 66.1 years). Results: The analysis revealed three central themes that encapsulate the essence of the park golf experience: (a) embodying comprehensibility and manageability by recognizing and overcoming physical and environmental limitations; (b) discovering vitality and meaningfulness in life through continuous participation; and (c) achieving enhanced psychological well-being driven by the manifestation of the SOC. Conclusion: Participation in park golf serves as a practical mechanism that enables older adults with physical disabilities to build internal resources and maintain active lifestyles. These findings suggest that such engagement ultimately leads to improved psychological well-being by forestering a robust SOC.