Physical activity behavior pathway from intention to action in older adults: a structural equation model based on the...

This study aimed to examine the behavioral pathway from intention formation to action control of physical activity, and thereby provide empirical evidence for developing physical activity promotion programs among older adults.

Older adults were recruited from community health centers in Shanghai, China. Physical activity was assessed by the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Physical activity intention was measured by a single validated item. Variables associated with intention formation and action control for physical activity were collected using standardized tools based on the multi-process action control framework. Structural equation modeling analysis was performed to examine the potential path relations.

A total of 372 older adults (mean age 73.2) were included. Among them, 89.2% (n = 332) reported an intention to be physically active and only 18.1% (n = 60) of these intenders met the WHO physical activity recommendations. At the intention formation stage, perceived opportunity was the only factor directly associated with intention. At the action adoption stage, perceived opportunity, affective attitude, and intention were all directly associated with behavioral regulation. Furthermore, intention partially mediated the relation between perceived opportunity and behavioral regulation. At the action maintenance stage, behavioral regulation indirectly influenced leisure-time physical activity through habit and identity.

Perceived opportunity is key to physical activity intention, and together with affective attitude, it contributes to promoting intention translation. Habit formation and identity affirmation are vital to maintaining adequate physical activity among older adults.