Bösch, Valérie Désirée (2025). Understanding Physical Activity in Older Adults: The Role of Psychological and Situational Determinants. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern
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Abstract
Aging and physical activity are crucial topics in public health, particularly as the global population of older adults continues to grow. Physical activity is a key health behavior that can significantly enhance the quality of life and reduce the risk of chronic diseases among older adults. However, maintaining regular physical activity can be challenging due to various psychological and situational factors. This dissertation aims to explore these factors by integrating three interconnected studies that investigate different aspects of behavior change and physical activity in older adults. Firstly, in a longitudinal study, self-efficacy and health status were the strongest predictors of intention to engage in physical activity after lockdown, while volitional factors like action control and planning had no significant effects. Fear of COVID-19 did not significantly effect the intention-behavior relationship. Secondly, in a qualitative study using the think- aloud paradigm, older adults often viewed planning as unnecessary or restrictive. Yet the process of creating implementation intentions encouraged self-reflection and highlighted barriers such as irregular routines. Some participants found planning beneficial for resuming activities, while others struggled with its applicability. Thirdly, in a qualitative study using an interpretative phenomenological approach, participants emphasized the importance of physical activity for well-being, mental health, and aging, describing it as both a need and a source of joy as autonomous motivations. However, societal pressures as controlled motivation sometimes made it feel arduous. They desired autonomy in choosing activities but acknowledged the value of external monitoring and noted that enjoyment often increased once they began exercising. This research expands on the understanding of the unique behavioral determinants that influence older adults’ physical activity. It shows how certain situational determinants like the Covid-19 pandemic can influence physical activity in older adults and indicates what protective factors are. Furthermore, it gives insights into the attitudes of older adults towards certain strategies, namely implementation intentions for changing their physical activity. It shows the importance of self-determination for maintaining physically activity over a lifetime. Which psychological needs have to be satisfied for older adults to sustain their physical activity, are also analyzed. This knowledge can be used be to inform future research and interventions, by giving concrete recommendations and guidance through situational changes. This will enhance their self-efficacy through social support, understanding their thought processes and enabling autonomy. Ultimately, the aim is to help older adults to adopt active lifestyles and promote healthy aging.
| Item Type: | Thesis |
|---|---|
| Dissertation Type: | Cumulative |
| Date of Defense: | 27 February 2025 |
| Subjects: | 100 Philosophy > 150 Psychology 600 Technology > 610 Medicine & health |
| Institute / Center: | 07 Faculty of Human Sciences > Institute of Psychology |
| Depositing User: | Sarah Stalder |
| Date Deposited: | 20 Jun 2025 10:36 |
| Last Modified: | 20 Jun 2025 10:36 |
| Link to associated content: | |
| URI: | https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/6316 |
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