DEVELOPING A PREDICTIVE MODEL OF SOCIAL COGNITIVE INFLUENCES ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER ADULTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Introduction: Increasing physical activity levels in middle-aged and older adults is a critical public health agenda, as regular physical activity reduces morbidity, healthcare costs, and chronic disease risks by up to 90. Developing effective physical activity programs, however, requires comprehension of factors influencing physical activity behavior. Aims: This research aimed to develop a predictive model of social cognitive influences on moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in this demographic. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 118 participants, 76 of whom were female. Social cognitive factors, which included self-efficacy, outcome expectations (physical, social, and self-evaluation), self-regulation (goal setting and planning), and social support (from family and friends) regarding physical activity, were assessed using validated self-reported questionnaires. A 7-day Physical Activity Recall interview was conducted to measure MVPA. Data were analyzed using bivariate correlations and stepwise multiple linear regressions, adjusted for sex and age. Results: All social cognitive measures showed moderate to strong correlations with MVPA (r = 0.43-0.79). The regression model, which included self-efficacy, physical outcome expectations, planning, and social support, explained 77 of the variance in MVPA. Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of strengthening these social cognitive factors to encourage more physically activity among middle-aged and older adults in Indonesia. © 2025 IJPH.