Investigating the Factors Affecting Physical Activity among Older Adults in Isfahan City, Iran, in 2023: Application of Social-Cognitive Theory

Abstract

Background: Physical activity plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life (QOL) among older adults. Given the specific needs of the elderly, attention to health-promoting behaviors that enhance their health status and QOL is of great importance. Since participation in physical activity is an important component of health-related programs for the elderly, this study aimed to examine the cognitive factors influencing physical activity, based on social-cognitive theory (SCT), in older adults residing in Isfahan City, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 550 adults aged over 60, who were randomly selected from health centers in Isfahan City, in 2023. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, a cognitive questionnaire (assessing self-efficacy, social support, outcome expectations, and outcome values), and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Data were analyzed using t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation, and linear regression in SPSS software with a significance level set at P < 0.01. Findings: The prevalence of low physical activity among older adults was 90.07. Although the results revealed significant correlations between self-efficacy, outcome expectancies, outcome values, social support, and physical activity (P < 0.01), the linear regression analysis identified self-efficacy as the only significant cognitive predictor of physical activity in older adults (β = 0.14, P < 0.01). Conclusion: The older adults in Isfahan City exhibited low levels of physical activity. Among the cognitive variables examined, self-efficacy emerged as the most significant predictor of physical activity in this population. Rather than solely promoting physical activity, researchers should focus on developing strategies to enhance older adults' perception of their ability to engage in physical activity. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.