Social cognitive theory variables are stronger correlates of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity than light physical activity in older adults with multiple sclerosis

Purpose Physical activity may be effective for managing the consequences of aging with multiple sclerosis (MS), yet physical activity participation is exceedingly low among older adults with MS. This study examined variables from social cognitive theory (SCT) as correlates of physical activity in older adults with MS as an important first step for informing the design of behavior change interventions. Methods We focused on identifying correlates of light (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) based on intensity-dependent benefits of physical activity. Older adults with MS (>= 60 years, N = 441) completed an online survey including demographic and clinical characteristics, SCT variables (self-efficacy, exercise goal setting, social support, and outcome expectations), and physical activity (LPA, MVPA). Results Bivariate correlation analyses indicated that all SCT variables correlated with both LPA and MVPA; however, correlations were stronger in magnitude for MVPA (range r = 0.25-0.56) than for LPA (all r = 0.11-0.20). Conclusion Our results suggest that behavior change interventions informed by SCT may be a promising approach for increasing physical activity, particularly MVPA, in older adults with MS, and this should be a focus of future research in this segment of MS.