The Mediating Effect of Social Networks on the Impact of Health Perceptions on the Quality of Life in Older Adults

<b>Background/Objective:</b> Social networks help improve psychosocial and quality-of-life outcomes among older adults. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of social networks in the effect of health perception on the quality of life of the elderly. <b>Methods:</b> The sample of the study consisted of 327 people over the age of 65 who applied to a family health center. The study data were collected using the "Personal Information Form", "Perception of Health Scale", "World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument-Older Adults Module", and "Lubben Social Network Scale". Multivariate regression analyses and mediation effect examinations were conducted to explore the relationships between social networks, health perception, and quality-of-life outcomes. <b>Results:</b> According to the findings, social networks mediate the relationship between health perception and quality of life. Individuals with a high level of health perception and a high level of social networks have higher quality-of-life levels than others. <b>Conclusions:</b> The results of the study confirm the significant correlation between health perception and the quality of life, as well as any potential links between these factors and social networks that affect older people's quality of life.