Gender differences in the association between received social support and satisfaction with life

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess whether there are gender differences in the association between three domains of received social support and satisfaction with life among older persons in Kitui County, Kenya. Methods: This study utilized the convergent parallel mixed method design, cluster sampling technique and included 396 persons aged 60 and over derived through the Yamane formula. Satisfaction with life was measured using the single-item life satisfaction measure. Social support included one item from each of the three domains of instrumental, emotional, and informational support pervasive in previous studies of social support. Chi-square statistics were used to determine the gender differences in the association between received social support and satisfaction with life. Results: Regardless of the older person's gender, social support was significantly associated with life satisfaction, making it a crucial element of their quality of life.