The Benefits of Playing Golf in Retirement

Here at Rangeford Retirement Villages, we are very lucky to have some of the best golf courses on our village door steps. Playing golf in retirement can offer a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits. In this article we talk about some of the advantages and highlight the courses close by to our villages.

• Physical Exercise: Golf involves walking the course, swinging the club, and you can even carry your clubs if you prefer. This can provide regular low-impact exercise, which is beneficial for overall health, cardiovascular fitness, and weight management.
• Mental Stimulation: Golf is a mentally challenging game that requires strategic thinking, problem-solving, and focus. It can help keep your mind sharp and engaged in retirement, reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
• Social Interaction: Golf is a social sport that allows you to spend time with friends, family, or meet new people. The camaraderie and conversation on the course can combat feelings of isolation and loneliness that some retirees may experience.
• Stress Reduction: Spending time outdoors in a serene and natural environment can be relaxing and reduce stress. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from daily worries and enjoy nature.
• Goal Setting: Setting goals and working to improve your golf game can provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose in retirement. Whether it's achieving a lower handicap or mastering a specific aspect of the game, it can be a satisfying pursuit.
• Fresh Air and Vitamin D: Being outdoors exposes you to fresh air and sunlight, which can help with mood and overall well-being. It's also a natural source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health.
• Retirement Community Integration: Many retirement villages have golf courses nearby, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for residents. It can facilitate social connections and forge integration into the community.
• Time Management: Golf can help structure your time in retirement, as it requires planning, scheduling tee times, and spending several hours on the course. This can be important for retirees looking to maintain a sense of routine.
• Scenic Enjoyment: Golf courses are often set in beautiful landscapes, providing an aesthetically pleasing and calming environment. This can enhance your overall quality of life and appreciation for nature.
• Travel Opportunities: Golf can be a reason to travel and explore different courses around the country and even the world! This adds a sense of adventure to retirement and the chance to experience new places and cultures.

So where can you play? Here are some of the local golf courses which are within easy reach of our villages.

Mickle Hill, Pickering

Kirbymoorside Golf Club

Malton & Norton Golf Club

Ganton Golf Club

Homewood Grove, Chertsey

Laleham Golf Club

Foxhills Country Club & Resort

Queenwood Golf Club

Siddington Park, Cirencester

Cirencester Golf Club

South Cerney Golf Course

Cotswold Hills Golf Club

Wadswick Green, Corsham

Kingsdown Golf Club

Cumberwell Park Golf Club

Manor House Golf Club at Castle Combe

Golf isn't without its costs, and it can become an all-consuming hobby, however, for many retirees, the benefits, both physical and psychological are second to none. Ultimately, the enjoyment and fulfilment one derives from playing golf in retirement depend on personal preferences and circumstances and we know you will find plenty of people to make up a four ball at our retirement villages.