Characteristics of Community-dwelling Older Adults: Frequency of Participation in Community Gatherings

Abstract

[Purpose] This study aimed to identify the characteristics of community-dwelling older adults who participate in community gatherings. [Participants and Methods] The study included 43 community-dwelling older adults who attended community gatherings. Measures assessed the baseline characteristics, the Kihon Checklist, subjective health status, participation duration, frequency of outings, exercise self-efficacy, outdoor self-efficacy, and participation frequency over a four-month period. [Results] There was a significant difference in exercise self-efficacy between the two groups. A negative correlation was observed between the participation frequency and outdoor self-efficacy. Additionally, outdoor self-efficacy showed a negative correlation with the Kihon Checklist, whereas exercise self-efficacy showed a positive correlation with subjective health status. [Conclusion] Community-dwelling older adults with a high frequency of participation in community gatherings exhibited low exercise and outdoor self-efficacy.