A Protection Motivation Theory Approach to Understanding How Fear of Falling Affects Physical Activity Determinants in Older Adults.

This study investigated the role of fear of falling (FoF) within an extended Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) framework to understand motivational and intentional determinants of physical activity (PA) among older U.S. adults aged 65 and older. Using survey data from 667 participants, the research found that coping appraisal constructs—self-efficacy and response efficacy—along with autonomous motivation and past PA behavior, significantly predicted intentions to engage in PA, whereas FoF and threat appraisal (perceived vulnerability and severity) did not directly influence PA intention. Physical health and gender influenced FoF and appraisal pathways, with women and those in poorer health reporting higher FoF. The findings suggest that while FoF relates to threat perception, it may be less critical than established PA habits and coping appraisals in shaping older adults' intentions to remain active, highlighting the importance of fostering self-efficacy and motivation in interventions aimed at promoting PA in this population.