PREDICTING EXERCISE IN OLDER AMERICANS - USING THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR

Introduction: Given the benefits of exercise, and low participation, p romoting exercise in older Americans is a national goal. Methods: This study used a survey to military beneficiaries using the theory of pla nned behavior and measurements of physical activity. Results: The resp onse rate was 81.6%. The percentage of respondents who get regular exe rcise [61.2%] was not different from that in national samples. Those g etting regular exercise were more likely to state that their doctor re commends exercise (p < 0.01). The theory of planned behavior regressio n model, using variables for attitude, social norm, and perceived beha vioral control, is strongly associated with intent to exercise; the ad dition of habit significantly adds to this model (R-2 = 0.468, p < 0.0 01). Discussion: The theory of planned behavior is a valid model for p redicting both the intention to exercise and actual exercise in older adults. This study emphasizes the role of clinicians and this model in promoting exercise in older persons.