Assessment of the relationship between health behavior and self-efficacy of the older Residents of Social Welfare Home in Gdańsk

Introduction. Self-efficacyis a determinantof being able tocopein different situations. Perception ofself-efficacycan affectthe motivationto
take actionand behavior, including health behaviors. The stronger theself-efficacy, the higher the ratethe severityof health behaviors. Enhancingself-
efficacymaybe particularly importantin maintaininghealth, especiallyamong the elderly.

Aim of the study. The aim ofthis study waspreliminary evaluation ofthe relationship betweenhealth behaviorandsense of self-efficacy in
nursing homeresidentsin Gdansk.

Material and methods. The study included 44 residents of Gdansk Social Welfare Home aged 65–89. Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale
(GSES) was used to assess the level of self-efficacy. Based on it eating habits, preventive behaviors, positive mental attitude and health
practices were assessed.

Results and conclusions. The largest group were people with low self-efficacy, (results within 1–4 sten). Residents with a low sense of self-efficacy had a lower level of activity to take preventive behavior, health practices and dietary habits. Indicator of general self-efficacy
correlated positively with health behavior. It seems necessary to create for older people such an environment, which would strengthen their
sense of self-efficacy