Predictors of participation in community health promotion programs among older adults in South Korea

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to understand the factors related to older adults' participation in community health promotion programs.Subject and methodsA nationwide survey of 800 community-dwelling Korean older adults aged & GE;60 years was conducted in 2017. The survey collected information on socioeconomic status, health conditions, and opinions on health and care services. Using the social ecological model, factors associated with participation in community health promotion programs were analyzed.ResultsWe found that only 17% of participants participated in community health promotion programs. Individual (age, residential area, fear of falling, regular exercise, and intention to participate), interpersonal (social participation), and environmental factors (awareness of visiting nurse services, and low access to community healthcare services) were associated with participation in community health promotion programs.ConclusionTo increase older adults' participation in community health promotion programs, a comprehensive approach that considers individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors is necessary. Supportive policies will improve older adults' positive attitudes and awareness of community health promotion programs. Future research should consider individual, social, and environmental factors related to various types of community health promotion programs to understand differential associations regarding participation in community health promotion programs.