Investigation of the relationship between social inclusion level, successful aging, and subjective happiness among elderly individuals enrolled in the 60+ refreshment university

Investigation of the relationship between social inclusion level, successful aging, and subjective happiness among elderly individuals enrolled in the 60+ refreshment universityA ging involves not only physical changes but also psycho- logical transformations.Individuals aged 65 and over constitute approximately 10% of the global population, and this proportion is expected to exceed 16% by 2050.In Trkiye, it is projected that by 2040, approximately 16.3% of the population will be aged 65 and over. [1]With aging, both physical and mental balance may deteriorate, and older adults may increasingly require assistance from others.If adequate social and physical support is not provided, individuals may withdraw from social settings, feel unimportant, and perceive themselves as losing functionality-factors that negatively impact successful ag-ing. [1][2][3] Moreover, physiological and mental changes associated with aging, retirement from work, loss of close friends, a decline in social activities, and children leaving home often contribute to social isolation and loneliness in older adults. [4,5] help elderly individuals navigate this period more positively, it is crucial that they have meaningful goals for the future and opportunities for social participation. [2]Social participation is a key factor in ensuring that older adults remain active in society, establish meaningful relationships, and receive social recognition.Engagement in social life supports happiness and healthy aging, and also facilitates the adjustment process associatedObjectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between social inclusion level, successful aging, and subjective happiness among elderly individuals enrolled in the 60+ Refreshment University.Methods: The study was designed as a cross-sectional correlational study.In this research, social inclusion level was considered the independent variable, while successful aging and subjective happiness were treated as the dependent variables.The study population consisted of 600 elderly individuals actively enrolled in the Third Age University affiliated with Akdeniz University.The study sample comprised 152 elderly individuals who voluntarily agreed to participate.Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the Social Inclusion Scale (SIS), the Successful Aging Scale (SAS), and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire-Short Form (OHQ-SF).Results: A significant positive relationship was found between social inclusion, successful aging, and happiness (p<0.01).Additionally, social inclusion was found to influence successful aging by 5% and happiness by 18.8%.It was determined that social inclusion contributes to increased successful aging and happiness.Conclusion: Elderly individuals were found to have moderate levels of social inclusion, successful aging, and happiness, and these three factors were shown to influence each other.Nurses can contribute to successful aging and happiness by promoting social participation among elderly individuals.It is recommended to establish stronger social support networks and to develop programs that support the physical and mental well-being of elderly individuals.