What stole Chinese older adults’ life satisfaction? Integrating medical statistics and machine learning with a life-course perspective using CHARLS data

This study provides an integrated and stage-specific understanding of life satisfaction among older Chinese adults. The findings deepen the theoretical understanding of life course influences, social support, and psychological resilience in later life. The study also suggests the need for tailored policy interventions that prioritize mental health care, social engagement, and basic living conditions at lower satisfaction levels, and incorporate early-life experiences and emotional connectedness for those with higher satisfaction.