Authors
Division of Adult and Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Roi Et Rajabhat University, Roi Et, Thailand
10.30476/ijcbnm.2026.109970.2988
Abstract
Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major health burden among community-dwelling
older adults with chronic illnesses. Preventive behaviors, such as healthy diet, physical activity, smoking
avoidance, and medication adherence, are important for reducing CAD risk. However, limited health
literacy and health information access may affect engagement in preventive behaviors. This study
aimed to investigate the factors associated with CAD preventive behaviors among Thai communitydwelling older adults with chronic illnesses.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2025 among 130
community-dwelling older adults with chronic illnesses in Selaphum District, Roi Et Province, Thailand.
Participants were selected using multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires
on demographic characteristics, CAD knowledge, perceptions of CAD prevention, health literacy,
and CAD preventive behaviors. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression with SPSS 26
software. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.
Results: The mean overall score of CAD preventive behaviors was 2.89±0.49. Multiple linear
regression analysis showed that health literacy (B=0.44, 95% CI [0.33,0.56], P<0.001), perceived
benefits (B=0.30, 95% CI [0.05,0.56], P=0.020), family history of non-communicable diseases (B=2.23,
95% CI [0.39,4.08], P=0.018), and female (B=−2.67, 95% CI [−5.09,−0.25], P=0.031) were significantly
associated with CAD preventive behaviors.
Conclusion: Older adults with chronic illnesses demonstrated high levels of CAD preventive behaviors.
Health literacy, perceived benefits, family history of non-communicable diseases, and female sex were
significantly associated with CAD preventive behaviors. Interventions should prioritize improving
health literacy and tailoring strategies to the needs of older women.
Keywords