Effect of 2-Way Social Support and Social Networks on the General Well-Being of Older Adults: A Latent Profile Analysis

Aims: To examine the profiles of general well-being in older adults and their related sociodemographic characteristics and to explore the association of these profiles with 2-way social support and social networks.

Design: This was a cross-sectional study.

Methods: In total, 411 older adults were recruited through convenience sampling from Zhejiang Province, southeast China. Each completed questionnaires on Sociodemographic Characteristics, General Well-being Schedule, Brief 2-Way Social Support Scale, and Lubben Social Network Scale. Latent profile analysis was used to categorise participants into distinct subgroups based on their general well-being. Chi-square and t-tests were used for univariate analysis, and binary logistic regression was used to identify influencing factors.

Results: The latent profile analysis identified two distinct profiles of well-being in older adults: a low general well-being group and a high general well-being group. Binary logistic regression revealed that living arrangements, physical activity, number of chronic diseases, provision of instrumental support and friend networks significantly impact the general well-being of older adults.

Conclusion: Heterogeneity in general well-being levels exists among older adults, necessitating targeted intervention measures tailored to the different characteristics of each subgroup to enhance their support resources and well-being.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care: Community nurses should identify general well-being disparities among older adults and craft targeted strategies as educators, providers, counsellors and managers to boost and equalise this demographic's general well-being.

Impact: Distinct profiles of general well-being among older adults, coupled with the positive effects of friend networks and the provision of social support, highlight the importance of mutual social support and networks in promoting healthy ageing. This may encourage community nurses to develop specific initiatives and programmes aimed at enhancing social engagement among older adults.

Reporting method: The study followed the STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional studies.

Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution.