| Physical Literacy as a Predictor of Physical Activity and Anxiety in the Elderly Population of Yazd, Iran |
| Paper ID : 1682-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
|
Mohamadjavad Razi *1, hosin samadi2 1farhangian university, 2yazd uni |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: Aging is associated with physiological, psychological, and social changes that may compromise quality of life. Recent studies emphasize that Physical Literacy (PL)—a multidimensional construct encompassing motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding—can promote active aging and enhance mental well-being. Considering the growing prevalence of inactivity and stress among older adults in Iran, the present study aimed to examine the predictive role of physical literacy in physical activity and anxiety levels among elderly men and women in Yazd. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted among 100 older adults (50 men and 50 women) aged over 60 years, selected through convenience sampling in Yazd city in 2024. Inclusion criteria included age above 60, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score greater than 24, and informed consent. Participants with severe physical or psychological disorders were excluded. Research tools included the Perceived Physical Literacy for Elderly Questionnaire (Naylor et al., 2024), the Sharkey Physical Activity Questionnaire (2003), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales – Stress Subscale (DASS-21; Lovibond & Lovibond, 2003). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying Pearson correlation and simple linear regression at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between physical literacy and physical activity (r = 0.242, p < 0.05) and a significant negative relationship between physical literacy and anxiety (r = −0.254, p < 0.01). Regression analysis indicated that physical literacy explained 6% of the variance in physical activity and 7% of the variance in anxiety, highlighting its predictive role in promoting active and psychologically healthy aging. Conclusion: The results suggest that higher levels of physical literacy enhance physical activity and reduce anexiety among older adults. Integrating educational programs based on motor literacy can foster active and healthy aging in Iranian societies |
| Keywords |
| Physical Literacy, Physical Activity, Anexiety, Aging, Mental Health |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
