Kang HW, Park M, Wallace (Hernandez) JP. The impact of perceived social support, loneliness, and physical activity on quality of life in South Korean older adults.
J Sport Health Sci 2018;
7:237-244. [PMID:
30356448 PMCID:
PMC6180534 DOI:
10.1016/j.jshs.2016.05.003]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2015] [Revised: 11/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to propose and test a conceptual model that explains the interrelationships among perceived social support, loneliness, physical activity (PA), and quality of life (QoL) among active older adults in South Korea.
METHODS
Data were collected from 332 individuals over the age of 65 using a systematic stratified convenience sampling method. Survey data were collected and analyzed using a structural equation model (SEM).
RESULTS
Perceived social support had a significantly positive effect on PA (β = 0.14, p < 0.01) and QoL (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) while decreasing loneliness (β = -0.55, p < 0.001). PA had a significant positive effect on QoL (β = 0.12, p < 0.01), and loneliness had a negative effect on QoL (β = -0.37, p < 0.001). Loneliness mediated the relationship between perceived social support and QoL.
CONCLUSION
The SEM results of the current study support the proposed model that explained the interrelationships among perceived social support, loneliness, PA, and QoL among active older adults in South Korea. These findings suggest the importance of incorporating social support mechanisms for PA interventions in order to enhance QoL. The findings of this study can help create more effective health and physical education programs for the older generations in South Korea to enhance their QoL.
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