Relationships between social participation types, mental and subjective well-being in Chinese older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Current literature underscores the importance of social participation and leisure activities in contributing to the overall well-being and successful ageing of older adults. Yet, the social distancing measures implemented by the Hong Kong government impacted older adults to a certain extent during the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigations into which types of social activities could influence their well-being are rare.

Objectives: This study investigates the relationships between specific types of leisure activities and wellbeing variables (i.e., life satisfaction, positive affect, negative affect, symptoms of depression and anxiety) in older adults.

Methods: A convenience sample of 341 participants ranging in age from 55 to 95 years (M = 70.83, SD = 9.16) was recruited to complete a survey questionnaire. Five hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between specific types of leisure activities (physical, cultural, recreational, religious, and voluntary work) and outcome variables.

Results: After controlling for covariates, it was revealed that only physical activities were associated with all outcome variables. Religious activities and cultural activities were positively correlated with positive affect. An inverse relationship was also observed between recreational activities and anxiety.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that promoting different types of social interactions might foster different aspects of well-being in Chinese older adults. To achieve successful ageing, the role of physical activities might be of paramount importance even under adverse situations.