The relationship of demographic factors, locus of control and self-efficacy to successful nursing home adjustment.

This study investigated demographic and psychological predictors of 58 older adults' successful adjustment to a nursing home. Predictors included demographic variables, locus of control, and self-efficacy beliefs. Successful adjustment was defined by activity level and by positive and negative affect. Findings suggest that demographic variables were not effective predictors of successful adjustment. Perceived self-efficacy accounted for more of the unique variance in adjustment than locus of control. Results are discussed in the context of improving resident adjustment to nursing home environments.