Exercise, self-efficacy, and exercise behavior in hypertensive older African-Americans

J Natl Black Nurses Assoc. 2006 Jul;17(1):17-21.

Abstract

Older African-Americans have very high rates of hypertension, and they experience one of the highest hypertension-related death rates of all American ethnic groups. They are also one of the most physically inactive groups, which contributes to their hypertension-related health problems. Interventions are needed to assist them in increasing their exercise activities and thereby gaining better hypertension control. This study evaluated the relationship between physical activity level and exercise self-efficacy for this group. Findings support a strong association and suggest that interventions that address exercise self-efficacy would be helpful for increasing the level of exercise in older African-Americans. Suggested nursing interventions, based on theory, are proposed.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Attitude to Health / ethnology*
  • Black or African American / education
  • Black or African American / ethnology*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Educational Status
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Behavior / ethnology*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Hypertension* / ethnology
  • Hypertension* / prevention & control
  • Leisure Activities
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Methodology Research
  • Nursing Theory
  • Self Care / psychology
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires