Work

Exploring the Association Between Physical Activity, Regulatory Emotional Self-Efficacy, Perceived Self-Burden, and Social Isolation Among Older Adults in China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: As people age, their physical functions decline, and changes in social roles and life experiences put older adults at a higher risk of social isolation. Methods: In this study, we employed both snowball and purposive sampling techniques to collect valid data from 237 seniors aged 60 to 75 residing in Hunan Province. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) with the partial least squares (PLS) method, we examined the relationship between physical activity and social isolation among this elderly population. Result: Findings from this study indicate a positive association between physical activity and regulatory emotional self-efficacy, while revealing a negative association with the perception of being a burden to others. Moreover, a higher regulatory emotional self-efficacy is linked to reduced social isolation, whereas an increased sense of self-perceived burden is associated with greater social isolation. This study also uncovers that the link between physical activity and reduced social isolation is influenced by both regulatory emotional self-efficacy and the perception of self-burden. Conclusion: It is imperative for a collaborative effort involving government entities, societal groups, family units, and individuals to meticulously address and cater to the diverse requirements of senior citizens.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13060687

Authors: Shicheng Yang, Huimin Peng, Longjun Jing, Huilin Wang, Shuyin Chen

Institution: Hunan University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Aging, Health, and Disability

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258