Low Levels of Functional impairment and Religious Gratitude as Predictors of Life Satisfaction in Older Adults

Abstract

Objective & Background: In Asia, including Pakistan, aged population is increasing at a faster rate. Researchers have not paid much attention to investigate the aging phenomenon with reference to quality of their existence. The present research was conducted to investigate predictors of life satisfaction in older adults.

Hypothesis: After the detailed literature review it was hypothesized that functional impairment and religious gratitude are likely to be predictors of life satisfaction in older adults.

Participants and Method: One hundred older adults between the ages of 60-90 years were assessed with the help of translated Urdu versions of Functional Impairment Scale (Weiss, 2000), Religious Gratitude Scale (Ahmed, 2010), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener, Emmons, Larsen, & Griffin, 1985)

Main Findings: Significant positive correlation was found between religious gratitude and life satisfaction. A significant negative correlation of functional impairment with life satisfaction and religious gratitude was found. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that religious gratitude and functional impairment are significant predictors of life satisfaction in older adults.

Implication of study: This study directs researchers to explore other latent and unexplored dimensions of life satisfaction in the forthcoming research. The study points towards the promotion of religious gratitude and highlights that by reducing functional impairment in older adults, improvement in their wellbeing can be accomplished.