The Relationship Between Knowledge of Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors and Healthy Living Behavior in The Elderly

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between knowledge of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors and healthy lifestyle behaviors in the elderly population.

Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was conducted with 56 elderly respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using the CHD Risk Factors Knowledge Questionnaire and a Healthy Lifestyle Behavior Survey. Statistical analysis included Spearman’s rank correlation and multiple logistic regression.

Results: Spearman’s rank test showed a significant negative correlation between knowledge of CHD risk factors and healthy lifestyle behaviors (p = 0.012; r = -0.332), indicating that lower knowledge was associated with poorer lifestyle practices. Logistic regression revealed a significant model (p = 0.018) with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.233. Among the influencing variables, smoking contributed 14.6% and gender 15.38% to the variance in behavior. The Nagelkerke R-square value was 0.260, suggesting the model explained 26% of the variability in healthy lifestyle outcomes.

Conclusion: Knowledge of CHD risk factors is significantly associated with lifestyle behaviors in the elderly. Improving awareness through targeted education may enhance prevention strategies and promote healthier aging.