The Mediating Effect of Self-Efficacy on the Relationship between Learning Motivation and Health Literacy among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Purpose: This study was conducted to examine the mediating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between learning motivation and health literacy among community-dwelling older adults. Methods: This descriptive survey study included 175 older adults visiting senior centers and older people’s welfare facilities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé post hoc tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficients. The mediating effect of self-efficacy was tested using the PROCESS macro (Model 4) with bootstrapping. Results: Health literacy differed significantly according to age, sex, education level, economic status, and perceived health status. Learning motivation, self-efficacy, and health literacy were positively correlated, and self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between learning motivation and health literacy (indirect effect=0.03, 95% confidence interval=0.006~0.068). Conclusion: These findings suggest that integrated intervention strategies targeting learning motivation and self-efficacy are required to improve health literacy among community-dwelling older adults. The results of this study provide evidence for the development of health literacy promotion programs for older adults.