From Fan to Field: Over-50s in North America and U.K. Find Joy in Sports

There's no denying the popularity of sports worldwide. According to Statista, around 63.5% of those over 16 regularly participated in sports in 2023, with participation rates increasing over the last two decades. 

The most watched sporting event globally is the FIFA World Cup, which drew an estimated 5 billion viewers. The Super Bowl, the NFL's championship game, consistently garners the highest TV viewership figures in the United States, with the 2024 edition attracting over 115 million viewers, with millions more internationally. World Series viewership in the U.S. typically falls within the 10-15 million viewer range, not counting international viewers. NBA Finals viewership averages 15-20 million viewers with a growing global audience. The NHL's Stanley Cup Finals have over 10 million viewers in the U.S. and Canada, not counting international viewers.

Being active is often a goal for those over 50 to maintain health and quality of life. Globally, those over 50 participate in many sports activities, and the numbers are increasing. 

A 2023 study by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) found that over 30% of adults aged 50 and over participate in regular physical activity, with many choosing sports specifically designed for their age group and fitness levels. These activities offer numerous benefits, promoting physical and mental well-being, social interaction, and a sense of community.

So, what is driving the rise? Perhaps it's the many benefits people gain from playing sports, including enhancing physical fitness, boosting mental well-being, and increasing social interactions. 

Popular choices for active older adults include:

• Low-impact sports: Walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga are all excellent options for maintaining fitness without excessive strain on joints.
• Social and recreational sports: Golf, bowling, and pickleball offer a fun and social way to stay active, often with lower intensity than traditional team sports.
• Adapted versions of traditional sports: Many popular sports like basketball or tennis have adapted versions with modified rules or equipment that cater to the needs of older players.

While participation data varies slightly by country, the trend toward active aging is consistent across the US, U.K., Canada, and other Western nations. 

According to Rachel Tavel, a doctor of physical therapy and a member of the Forbes Health Advisory Board, exercise is crucial for the mind, body, and soul. 

Sports can provide a great way for aging adults to improve their cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal strength and even coordination and balance. Not to mention, it's a great opportunity to be social.

In the US, for example, a 2022 report by the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) found that participation in activities like walking, yoga, and pickleball has grown significantly among the 50+ age group. Similarly, the UK government has launched initiatives promoting "silver sports" participation to encourage older adults to stay active. These trends highlight the growing recognition of the importance of physical activity for maintaining health and well-being throughout life.

Fan Loyalty: Global Trends in Over-50 Sports Spectatorship

For many people over 50, the passion for sports extends beyond participation. Many mature adults remain dedicated fans, following their favorite teams and athletes across various sports. 

In addition to local sports events, you could head to premiership or championship-level matches to watch the professionals play. Wearing your favorite team's kit and cheering with the crowd can be exhilarating and help deepen your connection to the sport. 

Viewing preferences often lean towards sports they played or followed in their youth, fostering a sense of nostalgia and connection.

Globally, popular spectator sports for older adults include:

• Professional leagues: Football (soccer), American football, baseball, basketball, and cricket are all major draws, with many fans maintaining allegiances to local or national teams for decades.
• Individual sports: Tennis, golf, and motorsports also attract a large viewership among older fans, particularly those who appreciate the strategic elements and athletic prowess of individual competitors.
• Olympic Games: Every four years, the Olympics capture the imagination of sports fans worldwide, with older adults often holding strong memories of past Games and finding inspiration in the stories of veteran athletes.

There are some regional variations in sports fandom among older adults. In the US, for example, American football, baseball, and basketball dominate viewership, while cricket is more prominent in the UK and former British colonies. 

However, the overall trend towards passionate sports fandom among the over-50 demographic remains consistent across Western nations. These fans enjoy the excitement of competition and find a sense of community and shared experience by following their favorite teams and athletes.

Staying Active or Cheering from the Stands

Staying engaged with sports can be a rewarding experience for anyone, especially those over 50. Here's how you can get involved, whether you prefer cheering from the couch or getting active yourself:

• Fan Communities: Finding a community of like-minded fans can enhance your sports-watching experience. Look for online forums, social media groups, or official fan clubs dedicated to your favorite teams or sports. These communities often host watch parties, hold online discussions and provide a sense of camaraderie. For example, retirement areas like Florida or Arizona have fan groups supporting the NFL, MLB, college football, US soccer, and international football teams. This way, you can cheer on your teams with those who share your passion.

A 2023 study by the Nielsen Fan Relationship Index found that 62% of sports fans over 50 value feeling a sense of community with other fans.

• Active Participation: If you're inspired to move beyond watching, consider taking up a sport yourself! Choose an activity you enjoy, and that suits your fitness level. Local sports clubs, community centers, and parks often offer beginner courses and leagues. Popular options include:
• North America: Walking, swimming, cycling, pickleball, low-impact versions of basketball or tennis.
• UK: Walking, swimming, cycling, bowls, table tennis, "walking football" (modified version with reduced contact).

Focus on Fun and Safety

Prioritize activities you enjoy and that are appropriate for your fitness level. Don't hesitate to seek professional instruction if you're serious about improving. Many sports clubs offer coaching for beginners, regardless of age. Additionally, invest in proper equipment. For example, appropriate footwear can improve performance and reduce injury risk.

Embrace the Benefits

Whether you choose to cheer from the sidelines or get active yourself, sports offer a wealth of opportunities. It's a fantastic way to stay connected, improve physical and mental well-being, and discover a new passion while enjoying the thrill of competition or the camaraderie of shared experiences.

Building Bonds Through Sports: Sharing the Joy with Family

Sports offer a fantastic way to connect with family across generations. Participating in a sport together, whether joining a family softball team or taking a weekend hike, fosters a sense of shared experience and teamwork. For older adults, it's a wonderful opportunity to introduce younger generations to the activities they enjoyed in their youth, potentially sparking a lifelong passion.

Cheering on a favorite team as a family can also be a powerful bonding experience. Watching games together, discussing strategies, and celebrating victories create lasting memories. It's a chance to pass down family traditions of fandom, fostering a sense of connection and shared history. 

The excitement of competition, the camaraderie of cheering alongside loved ones, and the joy of witnessing athletic feats all create a positive and memorable way to spend time with adult children and grandchildren.

Staying Active and Engaged: Sports in Long-Term Care Facilities and Senior Communities

Long-term care facilities and senior communities increasingly recognize the value of sports in promoting physical and mental well-being among residents. Here's how sports are being utilized to keep seniors active and engaged:

• Adapted Activities: Traditional sports like basketball or tennis can be adapted for lower-impact participation. Throwing beanbags into baskets, using softer balls, or playing on smaller courts allows seniors to enjoy the competitive spirit and camaraderie of team sports without undue strain.
• Focus on Fitness and Fun:  Activities like walking groups, gentle yoga sessions, or tai chi classes incorporate elements of movement and competition in a safe and manageable way. These programs improve physical fitness and provide opportunities for social interaction and a sense of accomplishment.
• The Thrill of the Game:  Organized viewing parties for major sporting events like the Olympics or local professional teams can generate excitement and shared experiences for residents. Facilities may even create friendly competitions or trivia nights around sporting events, fostering a sense of community and lively discussions.

By incorporating sports and physical activities into their programs, long-term care facilities and senior communities can help residents maintain a healthy lifestyle, connect with others, and experience the joy of competition and teamwork, all within a safe and supportive environment.

You have been involved with sports throughout your life, whether in school or as an adult, listening on the radio or cheering from the stands.

Many of us grew up watching ABC's Wide World of Sports as Jim McKay every week would open the show:

• Visual: A montage of exciting sports clips showcasing various athletic feats.
• Narration:  "Spanning the globe..." (pause)
• Narration: "...to bring you the constant variety of sport..." (pause)
• Narration: "...the thrill of victory..." (dramatic music swells)
• Narration: "...and the agony of defeat..." (dramatic music reaches a peak)
• Narration: "...the human drama of athletic competition..." (music softens)
• Narration: "This is ABC's Wide World of Sports!" (McKay's voice booms)

Don't give up on sports as you get older.