Pathways to life satisfaction (happiness): well-being among older adults in Ghana

Background Globally, the number of people aged 60 and over is increasing. The study examined the interconnectedness of emotional, physical, psychological, and social well-being and their collective impact on the happiness of older adults in Ghana.Methods We utilized data from the World Health Organization’s Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) Survey Wave 2. The study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine these relationships among a nationally representative sample of 1,010 older adults aged 60 years and above.Results The findings revealed significant positive direct effects of emotional well-being (β = 0.69, p < 0.001), physical well-being (β = 0.39, p < 0.001), cognitive well-being (β = 0.70, p < 0.001), and social well-being (β = 0.09, p < 0.001) on happiness. Additionally, the study identified significant covariances among these domains, with physical well-being showing a unique negative relationship with social well-being (β=–0.21, p < 0.001).Conclusion This study provides critical insights into the holistic factors contributing to the happiness of older adults, emphasizing the importance of integrated well-being strategies in enhancing the quality of life for older adults 60 years and older in Ghana.Clinical trial number Not applicable