Key result
Self-efficacy links to physical activity changes in older adults, while social support offsets low self-efficacy.
Observational (n=54)
In older adults, the effect of self-efficacy on physical activity is mediated by action control and moderated by social support.
Supports targeting social support to aid activity in older adults with low self-efficacy; leaves open causal effects and need for trials.
BACKGROUND: Self-efficacy, action control, and social support are considered to influence changes in physical activity levels in older adults. This study examines the relationship among these variables and explores the putative mediating and moderating mechanisms that might account for activity changes. METHODS: A longitudinal study with 54 older adults (≥ 50 years of age) was carried out in Costa Rica. In a moderated mediation analysis, action control was specified as a mediator between self-efficacy and physical activity, whereas social support was specified as a moderator between self-efficacy and action control. Baseline physical activity, age, and sex were specified as covariates. RESULTS: Action control mediated between self-efficacy and physical activity. An interaction between social support and self-efficacy on action control pointed to a synergistic effect at the first stage of the mediating process. CONCLUSIONS: The effect of self-efficacy on physical activity was partly explained by action control, providing evidence of action control as a proximal mediator of physical activity. Moreover, the moderator role of social support was confirmed: high social support appeared to compensate for low levels of self-efficacy.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Fernández et al. (2014) conducted an observational in Physical activity in older adults (n=54). Self-efficacy, action control, and social support was evaluated on Physical activity changes. Self-efficacy influenced physical activity changes in older adults, an effect partly mediated by action control and moderated by social support, which compensated for low self-efficacy.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: