Life satisfaction and its contributors among noninstitutionalized older people in Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran

摘要

Background : With the rising growth of the older population, the well-being of the elderly is an important objective for both economic and health policy. Aims : This study investigates levels of life satisfaction among older people living at home and the factors that influence it. Method : Applying probability proportional to size, a cross-sectional survey was conducted of 1067 older people living in Tabriz. The Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support questionnaires were administered. The data were analysed using chi-squared tests and logistic regression. Results : More than half of the participants were dissatisfied with their lives. Female, educated, and active older people reported greater satisfaction than others. Conclusion : The significant positive effects of perceived social support and physical activity rate indicated that social interaction may be as vital as physical activity for the well-being of older people, and that these qualities should be actively promoted among older people in Iran.