The influence of mental health on life satisfaction mediated by self-rated health: A study of Thai older adults

Authors

  • Guoxiang Zhao Doctoral program of Philosophy (Development Administration), Graduate School of Social Development and Management Strategy, National Institute of Development Administration, Bangkok 10240, Thailand
  • Ratiporn Teungfung Graduate School of Social Development and Management Strategy, National Institute of Development Administration, Bangkok 10240, Thailand

Keywords:

life satisfaction, mental health, older adults, self-rated health

Abstract

This study aimed to validate a model that explored the relationship between
mental health and life satisfaction, with self-rated health acting as a mediator.
Secondary data from the 2021 research project “Health, Aging, and Retirement
in Thailand (Wave 3)” were analyzed. The sample consisted of 3,156 respondents
aged 50 years and older. The research findings revealed that mental health
indirectly affected life satisfaction (β 0.376). Additionally, self-rated health
directly affected life satisfaction (β 0.794) and mediated the relationship
between mental health and life satisfaction among Thai older adults.
These results suggested that the model aligned well with the empirical data.
Data analysis enables policymakers and health professionals to effectively
make evidence-based decisions that address social and health issues.

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Published

10-02-2026

How to Cite

Zhao, G. ., & Teungfung, R. . (2026). The influence of mental health on life satisfaction mediated by self-rated health: A study of Thai older adults. Kasetsart Journal of Social Sciences, 46(4), 460438. retrieved from https://so04.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/kjss/article/view/286794

Issue

Vol. 46 No. 4 (2025): October-December

Section

Research articles

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Kasetsart University

This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/