The mediating effect of social networks and depressive symptoms on the relationship between older adults’ participation in volunteer activities and life satisfaction: a cross-sectional study involving Chinese older adults

This study reveals that social networks and depressive symptoms jointly mediate the relationship between volunteer participation and life satisfaction among older adults in China. These findings provide empirical support for integrating social and psychological mechanisms into models of active ageing. Promoting volunteer engagement may enhance both social connectedness and mental health, ultimately improving quality of life in later life.