There is still time to be active: Self-perceptions of aging, physical activity, and the role of perceived residual lifetime among older adults

Beyer AK, Wiest M, Wurm S (2019)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2019

Journal

Book Volume: 27

Pages Range: 807-815

Journal Issue: 6

DOI: 10.1123/japa.2018-0380

Abstract

Self-perceptions of aging (SPA) are a resource in later life. As aging is accompanied with perceptions of the finitude of life, it is assumed that perceived residual lifetime may play a role in the relationship between SPA and health behavior. Among older adults aged 65 years and older, the present study tested whether the relationships between gain- and loss-related SPA and two kinds of physical activity are moderated by perceived residual lifetime. Data were based on 2.367 participants over a 3-year period. Participants with less gain-related SPA were less likely to walk on a regular basis; however, a longer residual lifetime compensated for this negative effect. In addition, participants did sports more often if they not only held less loss-related SPA but also perceived a longer residual lifetime. These results emphasize the importance of perceived residual lifetime in health promotion interventions targeting physical activity in older adults.

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APA:

Beyer, A.-K., Wiest, M., & Wurm, S. (2019). There is still time to be active: Self-perceptions of aging, physical activity, and the role of perceived residual lifetime among older adults. Journal of aging and physical activity, 27(6), 807-815. https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2018-0380

MLA:

Beyer, Ann-Kristin, Maja Wiest, and Susanne Wurm. "There is still time to be active: Self-perceptions of aging, physical activity, and the role of perceived residual lifetime among older adults." Journal of aging and physical activity 27.6 (2019): 807-815.

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