Family function and health self-management ability among older adults from mountainous areas in China: moderated mediation model in a cross-sectional study

HSMA, APGAR score and GSE score were positively related among older adults in the Lishui region, highlighting potential areas for improvement. The results clarify the mediating effect of GSE on the relationship between family function and HSMA along with the moderating role of personal income. Strengthening family function may enhance HSMA, especially in low income older adults, while boosting GSE may benefit those with higher incomes. Future longitudinal studies should confirm these relationships and their causal direction.