title: Theory-based physical activity beliefs by race and activity levels among older adults.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Given the benefits of physical activity and the high proportion of inactivity among older adults, the purpose was to elicit theory-based behavioral, normative, and control physical activity beliefs among 140 educationally and economically diverse older adults and compare their beliefs by race (Blacks vs. Whites) and physical activity levels (inactive/underactive vs. highly active individuals).
  
  
  METHODS
  This was an elicitation study that took place in eight, mostly rural community settings in a Southeastern US state, such as Council of Aging Offices, retirement centers, and churches. Participants' behavioral, normative, and control beliefs were elicited via in person interviews. A valid and reliable questionnaire was also used to assess their physical activity levels.
  
  
  RESULTS
  According to the content analysis, inactive/underactive participants reported fewer physical activity advantages than highly active participants. Common physical activity advantages between the two groups were overall health, emotional functioning, and physical functioning. Similar physical activity advantages were reported among Blacks and Whites with overall health being the most important advantage. The most common physical activity disadvantages and barriers for all four groups were falls, injuries, pain, and health issues. Inactive/underactive individuals and Blacks tended to report more disadvantages and barriers than their peers. Common physical activity supporters were family members, friends and peers, and health-care professionals.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In their physical activity motivational programs, health promoters should reinforce physical activity benefits, social support, access to activity programs, and safety when intervening among older adults.
authors.affiliation: a School of Kinesiology , Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge , LA , USA.
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kosma
authors.affiliation: b School of Biological and Population Health Sciences , Oregon State University , Corvallis , OR , USA.
authors.forename: Bradley J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Cardinal
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D044383:Black People / Q000523:psychology*; D003469:Culture; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D012944:Social Support; D015144:Southeastern United States; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D044465:White People / Q000523:psychology*; D001741:Black or African American
keywords: activity levels; physical activity beliefs; race