The mediating role of happiness in the relationship between felt age and successful aging

Abstract

The rapid growth of the global older population necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the multidimensional factors that shape successful aging. This study was conducted to examine the mediating role of happiness in the relationship between felt age and successful aging among older adults living in Kırşehir, Türkiye. The study, designed as across-sectional analytical investigation, included 220 individuals aged 65 years and older who were registered at family-health-centers located in the city center and participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the Successful Aging Scale, and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire– Short Form. Path analysis revealed that felt age negatively predicted successful aging (β = –0.238, p < 0.001) and that the indirect effect through happiness was also negative and statistically significant (β = –0.078, p < 0.001). In addition, happiness was found to be a moderate and significant predictor of successful aging (β = 0.391, p < 0.001) and to have a partial mediating role in this relationship. Correlation analyses revealed that individuals who felt younger reported higher levels of happiness. Variables, such as education, income, and perceived health status were also found to have significant effects on the outcomes. The findings indicated that individuals’ felt age and happiness play a critical role in successful aging. Thus, the study underscores the importance of psychosocial interventions aimed at enhancing the happiness levels of older adults.

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