Korean J Rehabil Nurs.  2026 Jun;29(1):38-46. 10.7587/kjrehn.2026.38.

The Mediating Effect of Self-Efficacy on the Relationship between Learning Motivation and Health Literacy among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

• Cho OH
• Shin M
• Kim H

• KMID: 2582778
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7587/kjrehn.2026.38

Abstract

Purpose
This study was conducted to examine the mediating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between learning motivation and health literacy among community-dwelling older adults.
Methods
This descriptive survey study included 175 older adults visiting senior centers and older people’s welfare facilities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé post hoc tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficients. The mediating effect of self-efficacy was tested using the PROCESS macro (Model 4) with bootstrapping.
Results
Health literacy differed significantly according to age, sex, education level, economic status, and perceived health status. Learning motivation, self-efficacy, and health literacy were positively correlated, and self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between learning motivation and health literacy (indirect effect=0.03, 95% confidence interval=0.006~0.068).
Conclusion
These findings suggest that integrated intervention strategies targeting learning motivation and self-efficacy are required to improve health literacy among community-dwelling older adults. The results of this study provide evidence for the development of health literacy promotion programs for older adults.

Keyword

Health literacy; Self efficacy; Motivation; Aged