Factors associated with physical activity in elderly nursing home residents: a path analysis

Background Physical activity (PA) is low among elderly residents in nursing homes in China. We aimed to determine the factors that influence PA among elderly nursing home residents and their direct or indirect effects on PA levels. Methods The PA levels of the participants were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and their health beliefs were assessed using a self-developed 18-item questionnaire titled the ‘Health Beliefs of Nursing Home Residents Regarding Physical Activity’ in accordance with Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs. The correlations between HBM constructs and PA levels were analyzed and a regression-based path analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between HBM constructs and PA levels. Results A total of 180 residents with a mean age of 82.5 years (standard deviation = 5.76) were recruited. Linear regression analysis revealed that self-efficacy ( p < 0.001), perceived severity ( p < 0.01), and cues to action ( p < 0.01) were associated with the level of PA among nursing home residents. In the conceptual path model, self-efficacy, perceived severity, and cues to action had positive direct effects on the PA level, while perceived benefits and perceived barriers had indirect effects on the PA level. Conclusion The residents’ self-efficacy, perceived severity, and cues to action were found to be important factors that can affect the design and implementation of educational programs for PA. A better understanding of such associations may help healthcare providers design informed educational interventions to increase PA levels among nursing home residents.