Examination of Factors Related to Kinesiophobia in Individuals Living in Nursing Homes: Pain, Independence, and Life Satisfaction

This study examined the relationships among kinesiophobia, pain, independence in activities of daily living (ADL), and life satisfaction in 125 residents of nursing homes. Standardized scales were used to assess kinesiophobia, pain, ADL independence, and life satisfaction. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that kinesiophobia was positively correlated with pain (<i>r</i> = 0.764, <i>p</i> < .001) and negatively correlated with ADL independence (<i>r</i> = -0.772, <i>p</i> < .001) and life satisfaction (<i>r</i> = -0.681, <i>p</i> < .001). Multiple regression analysis showed that pain (β = 0.47, <i>p</i> < .001), reduced ADL independence (β = -0.38, <i>p</i> < .001), and lower life satisfaction (β = -0.19, <i>p</i> = .010) significantly predicted kinesiophobia, explaining 70% of the variance (R² = 0.700). Among pain subdimensions, pain-induced withdrawal was the strongest predictor. Mediation analysis demonstrated that kinesiophobia partially mediated the relationship between pain and life satisfaction (indirect effect B = -0.158, 95% CI: -0.307 to -0.042). These findings indicate that pain, loss of independence, and reduced psychosocial well-being jointly contribute to fear of movement in institutionalized older adults. Targeted occupational therapy interventions focusing on pain management, autonomy enhancement, and psychological support may reduce kinesiophobia and improve overall well-being in this population.