Watching Your Favorite Sports Team May Improve Your Well-Being

There is always something happening in the world of sports.

Whether it's the World Cup bringing together billions of soccer fans from around the globe, the NBA Finals captivating basketball enthusiasts, or the excitement of a local high school rivalry, people spend countless hours following their favorite teams and athletes.

For many, sports are more than just a game. They become a source of conversation, tradition, excitement, and community.

But could being a sports fan actually be good for your well-being?

Some research suggests the answer may be yes.

A Japanese study highlighted by The Guardian found that people who watched sports, whether at a stadium, on television, or online, reported greater life fulfillment and a stronger sense that life is worthwhile, even after researchers accounted for factors such as age, gender, and income.

According to sports psychologist Daniel Wann, PhD, of Murray State University, one reason may be that sports fandom helps people satisfy basic psychological needs.

Humans are social creatures who crave a sense of belonging, and following a favorite team, athlete, or sport can provide exactly that.

Being a fan connects us to a larger community of people who share a common interest, creating opportunities for conversation, friendship, and social connection.

Whether it's discussing last night's game with a neighbor, celebrating a championship with fellow fans, or simply seeing someone wearing the same team logo, sports can create a sense of connection that helps people feel less alone.

At the same time, fandom allows people to express their individuality.

While someone may identify with their local team like thousands of other fans, they may also develop unique interests that help them stand out. For example, a person might follow their hometown baseball team while also being passionate about professional cycling, women's soccer, or a particular athlete. In this way, sports fandom can help people feel both connected to others and uniquely themselves.

Wann's research has also found that the more strongly a person identifies with a team, player, or sport, the more likely they are to experience positive psychological outcomes.

This relationship has been observed across all levels of competition, from youth and amateur sports to college and professional teams. Highly identified fans tend to report lower levels of loneliness, social isolation, and alienation, along with higher self-esteem and a stronger sense of psychological well-being.

What This Means For Older Adults

If you're already a sports fan, consider giving yourself permission to enjoy it without feeling like it's a waste of time.

If you have a favorite team, use it as an opportunity to connect with others.

Watch games with friends or family members, discuss recent games with neighbors, join online fan communities, or attend local sporting events.

Even casual conversations about a team can create social connections.

This focus on connection may be especially important given the growing problem of loneliness.

According to a recent AARP survey, adults age 45 and older are experiencing higher levels of loneliness than ever before, with adults in their late 40s and 50s reporting some of the highest levels.

While sports are certainly not a cure for loneliness, they may provide a reason to connect with others, start conversations, join communities, and build relationships around a shared interest.

Caregivers can also use sports as a tool for engagement.

Watching a game together, attending a local sporting event, or simply talking about a favorite team can create enjoyable shared experiences.

For some older adults, especially those who are retired or spend much of their time at home, following a sports season can provide structure, routine, and something to anticipate throughout the week.

You can also expand your involvement beyond watching games.

Some people enjoy collecting sports memorabilia, opening trading cards, attending fan meetups, or meeting current and former players at community events.

And if your health allows, consider participating in sports rather than just watching them.

Many communities offer leagues, clubs, and recreation programs specifically designed for older adults.

There is even a national competition called the National Senior Games for adults age 50 and older.

Most importantly, remember that sports are just one example. Whether it's sports, gardening, volunteering, crafting, music, or another hobby entirely, activities that bring you enjoyment and connect you with others may help support emotional well-being as you age.

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