The relationship between social networks and subjective cognitive decline in Chinese younger older adults: the mediating effect of self-perception of aging

Younger older adults exhibited a high risk of social isolation, with friend isolation being particularly severe. The significant prevalence of SCD among younger older adults has emerged as a pressing health concern. Social networks exhibited a negative association with SCD, with SPA serving as a mediating role in this relationship. Moving forward, comprehensive interventions aimed at addressing SCD in older adults should consider strategies to enhance social networks and improve SPA.