ELDERLY LIFE SATISFACTION THROUGH SOCIAL INTERACTION AND FORMAL CARE CENTER MANAGEMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37231/apj.2026.9.1.724Abstract
Abstract: This study examines the key factors that influence life satisfaction among the elderly, focusing on the impact of social interaction, formal care center management, and happiness. As the global elderly population continues to grow, understanding the elements that contribute to their wellbeing, particularly in institutional settings, is increasingly important. A quantitative approach was adopted using a self-administered questionnaire completed by 250 respondents aged 60 and above across three formal care centers. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Version 29. The findings revealed a mean life satisfaction score of 3.27 (SD = 0.613), reflecting a moderate level of satisfaction among participants. A strong and statistically significant positive correlation was found between social interaction and life satisfaction (???? = 0.606, ???? < 0.01), emphasizing the importance of maintaining social relationships in later life. In addition, formal care management showed a positive correlation with happiness (???? = 0.368, ???? < 0.01), suggesting that well-managed care facilities contribute positively to emotional wellbeing. However, the correlation between happiness and life satisfaction was not statistically significant (???? = 0.179), indicating that while happiness is relevant, it may not directly translate into overall life satisfaction within institutional environments. These results suggest that enhancing social engagement and improving the quality of care services can significantly improve elderly life satisfaction. The study contributes to the growing literature on aging by highlighting the role of social and institutional factors in shaping elderly wellbeing. Further research is recommended to explore the advanced relationship between happiness and life satisfaction in care facilities.
Keywords: Ageing; Formal Care Management; Life Satisfaction; Quality of Life; Elderly Wellbeing.
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