Access to Sport Facilities, Social and Intergenerational Integration: A Case Study

Abstract

Purpose: The paper aims at analysing the effects of the introduction of the “Moje Boisko-Orlik 2012” program and its impact on the social and intergenerational integration of Polish residents. Design/Methodology/Approach: The implementation of “Moje Boisko-Orlik 2012” program was an opportunity to increase the level of social and intergenerational integration. The paper presents the main assumptions of the program, social and intergenerational integration defined through the prism of the participation of communities and different age groups in sporting activity. In addition, for the years 2009-2014, an analysis of the number of beneficiaries of Orliki and indicators of their use in the cross-section of voivodships were conducted. Findings: Intergenerational relations are constantly changing, and the aging of society have a major impact on them. Intergenerational integration occurs, e.g. in places such as Orliki”. The hypothesis on the positive impact of the program on the social and intergenerational integration of the population was verified on the basis of available data on the sporting activity of the population and the number of sports facilities created. Practical Implications: The authors’ observations point to address the subject of sporting activity of older people in a broader context. Sporting activity is an excellent platform for communication between generations. It should be used as often as possible for the benefit of the society. Originality/Value: The value added of this paper is to draw attention to the role of physical activity in shaping intergenerational relations and social integration. In addition, it seems interesting to use conditional formatting as a method of data analysis.