Effectiveness of a health belief model-based training on enhancing violence-preventive behaviors among older women: a quasi-experimental study

BACKGROUND: Evidence on violence against women predominantly focuses on those of reproductive age, leaving a gap regarding older women. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a Health Belief Model (HBM)-based training on enhancing violence-preventive behaviors among older women referring to rural health centers in Kharameh City in 2024. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 140 older women allocated into experimental (n = 70) and control (n = 70) groups using a multi-stage cluster and simple random sampling method. Data were collected using a standard HBM-based questionnaire before and two months post-intervention. The experimental group received six face-to-face HBM-focused training sessions. Data were analyzed using SPSS-27 via paired t-test, independent t-test, and chi-square tests. RESULTS: Pre-intervention, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups across all HBM constructs and behaviors (P > 0.05). Post-intervention, the experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, self-efficacy, and preventive behaviors compared to the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The HBM-based training intervention significantly enhanced violence-preventive behaviors among older women. Integrating such theory-driven educational programs into primary healthcare settings may empower older women by promoting their self-efficacy and adopting evidence-based preventive behaviors.