Self-Efficacy and Physical Activity in Older Couples
Author Information
Author(s): Garza Elizabeth Zambrano, Broen Tiana, Ashe Maureen, Madden Kenneth, Gerstorf Denis, Hoppmann Christiane
Primary Institution: University of British Columbia
Hypothesis
Does relation-inferred self-efficacy influence physical activity in older adult couples?
Conclusion
Relation-inferred self-efficacy is important for motivating physical activity in older adults, while daily problems do not affect physical activity levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Individual self-efficacy is positively associated with physical activity.
- Relation-inferred self-efficacy captures perceptions of support from close others.
- Daily problems were not associated with physical activity levels.
- When modeled together, only relation-inferred self-efficacy was significant.
Takeaway
Older adults are more likely to be active if they believe their loved ones think they can do it, even if they face daily challenges.
Methodology
The study involved 110 older adult couples who wore accelerometers and reported daily problems for up to 7 days to analyze self-efficacy and physical activity.
Limitations
The study did not find significant interaction effects between self-efficacy and daily problems.
Participant Demographics
Community-dwelling older adult couples.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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