THE MEDIATING ROLE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT IN ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG ELDERLY PEOPLE

Abstract

This study examines the mediating role of social support in the relationship between physical health, psychological well-being, and quality of life among elderly individuals. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was adopted, and data were collected from 250 elderly participants aged 60 and above living in community and care-home settings. Standardized questionnaires — the WHOQOL-BREF, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) — were used. Statistical analysis involved Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and mediation testing using PROCESS macro (Model 4). Results showed that social support significantly mediates the relationship between physical/psychological health and quality of life, indicating that higher social support enhances well-being even when health conditions are declining. These findings underscore the importance of community-based interventions and family involvement in improving the quality of life of the elderly.