Factors associated with cane use among community dwelling older adults

Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study examined factors associated with cane use among community dwelling older adults. Data were collected in a cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 106 commun ity residing older adults in Ottawa, Canada. Using a stepwise discriminant analysis, subjective norms, attitudes, and age surfaced as the key variable s associated with cane use in this sample. The discriminant function accoun ted for 67% of the variance in cane use and correctly classified 91% of cas es (Wilks's lambda = 0.33, chi (2) = 110.12, df = 3, p < 0.0001). The findi ngs provide evidence for the utility of the TPB in its application to under standing cane use behaviors of older persons and have important implication s for the design of theory-based fall prevention interventions to enhance t he acceptance and effective use of mobility aids.