The association between intergenerational support and depressive symptoms in older adults: a chain mediation analysis of life satisfaction and well-being

The findings reveal a chain mediation effect involving life satisfaction and well-being in the association between intergenerational support and depressive symptoms among older adults. Emotional support is positively associated with higher life satisfaction and greater well-being, which in turn are linked to lower levels of depressive symptoms. In contrast, life satisfaction and well-being appear to suppress the positive associations between economic support or care support and depressive symptoms. These results enhance our understanding of the psychosocial pathways through which intergenerational support is related to mental health in later life and provide empirical evidence to inform the design of targeted psychological interventions and social support policies.