Social Support, Happiness, and Self-Rated Health among Older Adults: A Population-Based Study

Successful aging is affected by multiple factors, including social support and mental health. In this investigation, the aim was to assess the association between Social support, happiness, and self-rated health among older adults. In this cross-sectional analytical descriptive study, 240 older adults were included using the multistage sampling method in Kerman, Iran. Data collection tools included: sociodemographic questionnaire, happiness self-rated health questionnaire, the Received Social Support Scale, and Perceived Social Support. The mean age of the elderly in the study was 66.74 +/- 8.69 years. Regarding happiness status, less than half of them reported an acceptable happiness level. The mean perceived social support value was 42.3%, and the highest mean belonged to friend support. The means of received and perceived social support were significantly different based on gender, number of children, marital status, education, health, and happiness. It is necessary to heed older people's social needs and communication networks, as these may have a direct impact on their health and happiness status.