Investigating predictors of self-care behavior among homebound older adults: The role of self-efficacy, eHealth literacy, and perceived social support

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the predictors of self-care behavior among homebound older adults using the Health Empowerment theory as a framework. Design: This was a cross-sectional, predictive correlational study. Methods: Sixty-eight participants were randomly selected from five Hong Kong community centers from May 21, 2020 through July 20, 2020. Self-care behaviors were assessed using the Chinese version of Partners in Health. Self-efficacy, eHealth literacy, and perceived social support were assessed as potential predictors of self-care behaviors. A multiple linear regression analysis was adopted to examine the predictive effects. Results: The age of the sample ranged from 61 to 85 years (mean = 71.7, SD = 6.0). Participants who reported having sufficient or more than sufficient financial resources had better self-care behaviors than those who claimed to have insufficient financial resources (F = 5.08, p = 0.009). Statistically significant correlations were found between the participants’ eHealth literacy (r = 0.54, p < 0.001), perceived social support (r = 0.60, p < 0.001), and self-care behaviors. eHealth literacy (β = 0.13, p = 0.007) and perceived social support (β = 0.13, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of self-care behaviors. Collectively, the three variables accounted for 41% of the variances in self-care behaviors. Conclusions: The findings in this study suggest that eHealth literacy and perceived social support are two key factors that predicted the self-care behaviors of this vulnerable population. Clinical relevance: In this technological era, the use of eHealth, together with enhanced social support, can lead to better self-care among older adults, particularly those who are homebound.