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Physical Activity and Functional Limitations in Older Women: Influence of Self-Efficacy

Department of Kinesiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Address correspondence to Edward McAuley, Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois, 906 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801. E-mail: emcauley{at}uiuc.ed

This study examined the role of self-efficacy and physical function performance in the relationship between physical activity and functional limitations. Older women (age, M = 68.2 years) completed measures of physical activity, self-efficacy, physical function performance, and functional limitations at the baseline of an ongoing study. Analyses indicated that physical activity was associated with self-efficacy for exercise, efficacy for gait and balance, and physical function performance. Both measures of efficacy and physical functional performance were associated with functional limitations. Demographic and health status variables did not differentially influence these relationships. Although cross-sectional in nature, our findings suggest that physical activity, self-efficacy, and functional performance may all play a role in reducing functional limitations. Of particular relevance is the fact that both physical activity and self-efficacy represent important, modifiable factors that can enhance function.