Developing Predictors of Long-Term Adherence to Exercise Among Older Veterans and Spouses.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Behavior change theory was used to explore predictors of long-term adherence (≥2 years) to exercise. A retrospective analysis of data from participants (N = 97) who reached a 6-month follow-up, which served as the baseline, was evaluated for completion of yearly follow-up surveys. Variables examined at baseline, which included age, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), and self-report of comorbidities, symptoms, physical function, and a Barriers Specific Self-Efficacy Scale, were examined with significance set at p < .05. Lower BMI (29.1 ± 5.1 vs. 31.6 ± 6.5, p = .047) and higher self-efficacy to overcome environmental barriers (p = .016) and social isolation (p = .05) were associated with long-term adherence. Self-efficacy to overcome environmental and social barriers, such as inclement weather, access to exercise site, and opportunities for group-based exercise, should be addressed to promote long-term adherence to exercise among older adults.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Brown, CS; Sloane, R; Morey, MC

Published Date

  • October 2020

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 39 / 10

Start / End Page

  • 1159 - 1162

PubMed ID

  • 31542972

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC7083684

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1552-4523

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1177/0733464819874954

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States