Health locus of control and self-efficacy beliefs in a healthy elderly sample

BACKGROUND. The elderly are the fastest growing segment of the population, and this will place additional burdens on the healthcare system. It is therefore valuable to study the elderly who have reached their later years relatively free of disease and in good health. METHODS. Health locus of control, self-efficacy beliefs, and lifestyle behaviors were studied in a sample of 57 healthy elderly subjects. Subjects completed the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale, and Healthstyle Self-Test for Seniors. RESULTS. Most of the subjects were characterized by an internal health locus of control belief (91.2%), high generalized self-efficacy (57.9%), and good health behaviors. As hypothesized, positive relationships were found among these variables. DISCUSSION. Individuals with an internal health locus of control and high generalized self-efficacy are more likely to benefit from a health education program than those with an external locus of control and low self-efficacy. Health educators can better serve their clients by evaluating these parameters when developing programs.