Poor health-promoting behaviors increase the risk of chronic disease and disability in older adults. Nevertheless, the predictors of health-promoting behaviors and their relationship with metabolic syndrome have been poorly characterized in older Taiwanese adults.

To explore the determinants of health-promoting behaviors in community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan and the relationship of health-promoting behaviors with metabolic syndrome.

A cross-sectional design was used. A convenience sample of 200 community residents aged 60 years and over was recruited from two large communities in New Taipei City, Taiwan. Data collection included physical examination and a structured questionnaire including measures of health status, health-promoting behaviors, self-efficacy, social support, and metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome was found in 60% of older Taiwanese adults. These participants had higher scores in interpersonal relationships but lower scores in physical activity. Half of the health-promoting behaviors were explained by behavior-specific cognitions and affect, and 44% of behavior-specific cognitions and affect was explained by the health status of the older adult.

Physical activity should be promoted in older Taiwanese adults. Positive behavior-specific cognitions and affect and better health status might impact the health-promoting behaviors of these adults.