Zarineh Ghareh Kolchiyan; Farideh Sharifi Far; Ali Basri; Bahram Ghadimi
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the sociological pattern of sports habitus among the elderly in Tehran. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach and thematic analysis, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The statistical population included sports sociologists, ...
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The present study aimed to investigate the sociological pattern of sports habitus among the elderly in Tehran. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach and thematic analysis, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The statistical population included sports sociologists, senior managers of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, senior managers of the Tehran Municipality Sports Organization, and elderly individuals actively engaged in sports. Sampling was done using the snowball method until theoretical saturation was reached (18 participants). Data were analyzed using MAXQDA software, and the validity and reliability of the research were confirmed. For data analysis, open, axial, and selective coding was employed. Based on the analysis, three main categories (overarching themes) were identified: social capital, cultural capital, and physical capital. Within these three categories, nine organizing themes were extracted, including social interactions, elderly gatherings, social status, socialization, social support, social motivation, physical and bodily capital, the promotion of elderly sports culture, and knowledge and awareness of the elderly. Additionally, the study identified 45 basic themes, each of which represents different dimensions of sports habitus among the elderly. The findings indicate that the pattern of sports habitus among the elderly is shaped by social, cultural, and physical capital, and understanding these components can provide a framework for future research in the sociology of elderly sports. It is recommended that policymakers and sports managers implement initiatives such as establishing neighborhood-based sports groups to enhance social interactions among the elderly, developing sports facilities and equipping public centers with appropriate amenities, conducting educational and awareness programs in the media, supporting intergenerational sports programs to strengthen family relationships, and offering incentive policies such as discounts at sports centers for the elderly. These measures can facilitate increased participation in sports activities among the elderly and contribute to a healthier lifestyle for this demographic.
