Factors explaining physical activity level in Parkinson´s disease: A gender focus.

Objective

To analyze the multivariate associations between self-rated level of physical activity and demographic characteristics, self-efficacy for physical activity, fall-related self-efficacy, fear of falling, enjoyment from participation in physical activity, social support, fatigue, and health-related quality of life in persons with PD with a focus on gender.Method: Participants were persons with PD (n = 285, mean age 69.1 ± 7 years). Self-reported scales measuring level of physical activity (Physical Activity Disability Survey-Revised), enjoyment of physical activity (study- specific questions), self-efficacy for physical activity (Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale), fall-related self-efficacy (Falls Efficacy Scale), social support (Social Influences on Physical Activity), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale) and health-related quality of life (Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39) were used. The response rate was 58.2%.

Results

Multiple regression analyses showed that 54.5% of the level of physical activity was explained by low-degree limitations in mobility and activities of daily life (ADL), being younger, higher self-efficacy for physical activity, communication limitations, bodily discomfort, social support and shorter time since diagnosis. Enjoyment of physical activity explained the level of physical activity for women, whereas self-efficacy for physical activity explained the level of physical activity for men.

Conclusion

Implementing strategies to increase functional mobility, self-efficacy for physical activity, social support, and enjoyment of physical activity might facilitate persons with PD beginning and/or maintain different physical activities.