Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was conducted to find perceived health status, ADL, depression, and life satisfaction among the rural elderly and to explore differences according to gender and the stage of exercise change.
METHODS
This is an exploratory survey study. The subjects were 365 elders consisting of 140 men (38.4%) and 225 women (61.6%) in a rural area in Korea. Data were collected from December, 2006 to January, 2007 using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed by Pearson's correlation, t-test, ANOVA, and Scheffe's test using the SPSS/WIN 10.0.
RESULTS
The mean scores of perceived health status and ADL were lower and depression was higher in women than in men. There were statistically significant differences in perceived health status according to the stage of exercise change. Also there were significant differences in the scores of ADL, depression, and life satisfaction according to the stage of exercise change.
CONCLUSION
The tailored exercise seems to decrease depression while promoting physical health status and life satisfaction among the rural elderly. We suggest considering the client's intention and motivation when developing exercise programs.

• Keywords: Elderly;Exercise;Stage of change;