Effects of a Physical Activity Program based on Social Cognitive Theory for Old-Old Women with Knee Osteoarthritis

Purpose: This study was conducted to verify the effects of a physical activity program based on social cognitive theory for elderly women with knee osteoarthritis (KO).Methods: Ninety-two women aged over 75 with KO from one community center and five senior centers in G county participated. Groups of physical activity based on social cognitive theory (experimental, n=38), Thera-band physical activity (comparison, n=24), and no intervention (control, =30) participated in a 16-session, 8-week program.Results: Knee joint function, muscular strength, exercise self-efficacy, outcome expectations for exercise, social support, and social networks increased significantly in the experimental group compared to the other groups.Conclusion: Physical activity based on social cognitive theory most effectively increased physical function, self-efficacy, and social support of elderly women with KO.