Ageing Happily in Ghana: How Does Social Inclusion Contribute?

• DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13004
• Publication Date: 2023-07-13T01:38:55Z
• Authors: Razak M. Gyasi; André Hajek; Felix Asante; Burnett Tetteh Accam; Solomon Osei‐Tutu; Masoud Rahmati; Vyda Mamley Hervie; Kabila Abass; David R. Phillips
• Keywords: Male; Aging; Happiness; Humans; Female; 10. No inequality; Ghana; Social Inclusion; Psychological Well-Being; Aged

Promoting happiness has become increasingly important in old age for a wide range of reasons. In this study, we aim to examine the association between social inclusion (SI) and among older adults Ghana identify mediating factors.The study included 1201 community-dwelling aged ≥50 (mean = 66.4 ± SD 11.9 years; 63.3% female) from 2016-2018 Ageing, Health, Psychological Well-being, Health-seeking Behaviour Study. We assessed with self-rated cross-culturally validated item on five-point scale. SI was operationalised using modified Berkman-Syme Social Network Index. The hypothesised associations were evaluated by hierarchical regressions bootstrapping techniques Hayes' PROCESS macro programme.The prevalence 24.3% (all time), 43.6% (most 28.3% (little 3.7% (none time). After controlling potential confounders, higher associated increased levels (odds ratio (OR) 1.36; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16-2.51). Aside family/friends contacts, all other domains positively influenced (OR 1.45-1.81). link mediated depressive symptoms (65.2%), generalised anxiety (30.1%), sleep problems (9.5%).Our data suggest that psychological factors may largely explain positive SI-happiness link. Efforts should target these promote age. Longitudinal analysis confirm our findings.