The role of age and gender in shaping happiness, spiritual well-being, and life satisfaction among elderly individuals

Abstract

This study investigates the role of age and gender in determining happiness, spiritual well- being, and life satisfaction among elderly individuals. As global aging accelerates, understanding how demographic variables influence psychological well-being has become crucial for improving the quality of life in later years. Using a comparative cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 450 elderly participants across three age groups (65-75, 75-85, and 85+ years) and both genders, employing standardized instruments including the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, the Spiritual Well-Being Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA to examine age-based differences and independent samples t-tests for gender comparisons. The results revealed significant age-related differences in happiness and spiritual well-being, with individuals aged 75-85 years reporting the highest levels, followed by a notable decline in the 85+ age group. However, life satisfaction remained stable across all age groups, suggesting adaptive mechanisms in later life. Gender comparisons showed that male participants reported significantly higher levels of happiness and spiritual well-being compared to females, while no significant difference was found in life satisfaction. These findings indicate that age and gender are important factors influencing emotional and spiritual dimensions of well-being in old age, while life satisfaction appears to be more resilient to demographic variations. The study underscores the need for age-sensitive and gender- responsive interventions in geriatric care and calls for policies that address the diverse psychological needs of older adults. It contributes to gerontological literature by highlighting the nuanced interplay between demographic characteristics and subjective well-being in aging populations.