To assess factors that affect the adoption of healthy lifestyles among a variety of active Israeli seniors, a survey was conducted in 2002 at the Peiluyada, a physical activity-oriented health fair for seniors held annually in Israel from 1995 to 2002. A multi-language, self-administered questionnaire, assessing predisposing factors, barriers and health-protective behaviors, was fielded to potential participants. Response rate at the event was 51%. Hebrew and Arabic speakers generally characterized their health as good to very good, while Russian speakers' health was rated only poor to fair. Over 80% engaged in regular physical activity, were satisfied with their diet, and conformed to international nutritional recommendations. Vaccination coverage against influenza (81%) and pneumocccocus (58%) was highest among Arabic speakers, and lowest among Russian speakers (33.5% and 12%, respectively). Higher age (> or =75 years) was significantly associated with receiving a vaccination against influenza. Major barriers to exercise included low motivation and poor physical health or disability. Health-related dietary restrictions were the leading nutritional barrier. Prominent barriers to vaccination included concerns about vaccine effectiveness (39%) and side effects (29%). Leading cues to action were a recommendation from one's doctor (67%) and from a healthcare worker (51%).

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pneumocccocus healthprotective health vaccination barrier selfadministered questionnaire

Anat A, Shemesh Iris, Rasooly Pamela, Horowitz John, Lemberger Yosefa, Ben-Moshe Josefa, Kachal Josepha, Danziger A Mark, Clarfield Elliot, Rosenberg,.Health behaviors and their determinants in multiethnic, active Israeli seniors.. 47 (1),63-77.

Anat A, Shemesh Iris, Rasooly Pamela, Horowitz John, Lemberger Yosefa, Ben-Moshe Josefa, Kachal Josepha, Danziger A Mark, Clarfield Elliot, Rosenberg,"Health behaviors and their determinants in multiethnic, active Israeli seniors." 47

Anat A, Shemesh Iris, Rasooly Pamela, Horowitz John, Lemberger Yosefa, Ben-Moshe Josefa, Kachal Josepha, Danziger A Mark, Clarfield Elliot, Rosenberg,"Health behaviors and their determinants in multiethnic, active Israeli seniors."