Analysis of Life Satisfaction and Influencing Factors Among the Elderly Population in Xuzhou

Zhang Yuxuan; Zhang Jun; Shen Anqi; Tang Wanhua; Li Fen

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1001-568X.2025.09.0006

Abstract：OBJECTIVE To analyze the factors influencing life satisfaction among the elderly in the context of population decline and to explore the differences in these factors between urban and rural elderly populations,thereby providing references for promoting healthy aging and enhancing well-being among the elderly.METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.Field research was carried out among individuals aged 60 and above in the jurisdiction of Xuzhou to investigate the level of life satisfaction and its influencing factors among the elderly.RESULTS The level of life satisfaction among the elderly was relatively high,with an average score of(26.83±4.80).Life satisfaction was influenced by various factors including age,presence of pension insurance,number of children,self-rated health status,and measured mental health status.Measured mental health status affected the life satisfaction of both urban and rural elderly,but to varying degrees.Additionally,life satisfaction among rural elderly was influenced by marital status and the number of children.Life satisfaction among urban elderly was influenced by age,presence of pension insurance,need to care for parents,and self-rated health status.CONCLUSION The life satisfaction of the elderly is influenced by multiple factors,with notable urban-rural differences.Urban elderly generally reported higher life satisfaction than their rural counterparts.To enhance the life satisfaction of the elderly,measures such as promoting moderate physical exercise to improve physical health,fostering an optimistic mindset to boost mental health,encouraging community volunteers to provide assistance,strengthening the sense of social belonging among the elderly,improving the endowment insurance system,increasing the coverage of urban endowment insurance,and enhancing rural infrastructure development are essential.