Objective(s): A healthy lifestyle and knowing its predictive factors is one of the main concerns of the health system. By identifying the factors affecting a healthy lifestyle and training and strengthening it in older adults, it is possible to prevent more problems and take steps to improve their quality of life. Therefore, this study aimed to determine predictors of adopting a healthy lifestyle based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) among Older Adults in Baft, Kerman.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study (descriptive-analytical) conducted in 2021. The research samples included 273 older adults living in Baft, Kerman and were selected by simple random method from comprehensive health service centers under the Kerman University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using a demographic information form, a healthy lifestyle questionnaire, and a healthy lifestyle questionnaire based on the TPB by the self-report method. Data analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics at a significance level of P<0.05.
Results: The results showed that the healthy lifestyle score was 112.66 (23.11) and the older adults had an average healthy lifestyle. There is also a statistically significant relationship between a healthy lifestyle and knowledge (P=0.03) and the construct of subjective norms (P<0.001), and 13% of changes in a healthy lifestyle are predicted by the construct of subjective norms.
Conclusion: Considering the role of knowledge and subjective norms in the healthy lifestyle of older adults, it is suggested that health system planners pay more attention to promoting the knowledge and role of key individuals in the lives of older adults and family support in health promotion programs for older adults.