The association between self-efficacy and social support with physical activity in older adults: a cross-sectional study

Ageing is a natural biological process accompanied by a spectrum of physiological and psychological challenges. Regular physical activity is crucial for preserving health and functional capacity in older adults. This cross-sectional study examined the relationships between physical activity levels, self-efficacy, and peer-based social support among adults aged 65-75 years in Rasht, northern Iran. A total of 550 individuals were recruited through systematic random sampling from comprehensive health centers. The participants completed the validated Persian versions of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Self-Efficacy for Physical Activity Questionnaire, and a peer-based social support scale. Statistical analyses were conducted via SPSS version 25. Multivariate ordinal logistic regression indicated that higher self-regulation scores, a key subdomain of self-efficacy, were significantly associated with greater physical activity levels (P < 0.001). Older adults with higher educational attainment engaged in significantly more physical activity (aOR = 2.10, P = 0.035), whereas those with activity-limiting conditions reported lower activity levels (aOR = 0.58, P = 0.003). Peer-based social support was positively correlated with self-efficacy but was not directly associated with physical activity. These findings can inform the development of targeted strategies in geriatric health promotion programs, emphasizing the enhancement of self-regulation skills and the role of education in fostering physical activity.