Prevalence and Perception of Low Social Support among the Geriatric Population in Rural South India: A Mixed-method Study

Abstract Background: Social support is an essential social predictor of health, helping individuals achieve their physical and emotional requirements. The current study aims to evaluate the low social support status of the geriatric population in rural South India. Methods: A mixed method study was conducted among geriatric population in field practice area of the Rural Health and Training Centre of our institution for 1 year (July 2024 to July 2025). A group of 250 participants were selected using a systematic random sampling method. A Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support questionnaire was used to collect the quantitative data. The qualitative data to assess the perception of low social support among the geriatric population in the community were done through in-depth interviews (IDIs). Results: Among 250 elderly participants, 100 (40%) older individuals had low social support, 90 (36%) had moderate support, and 60 (24%) had high social support. The result showed occupation, socioeconomic status and marital status of the elderly were significantly associated with low social support. IDIs highlighted that elderly participants faced emotional isolation, loss of autonomy and structural neglect, reflecting deep social and emotional deprivation. Conclusion: Promoting intergenerational activities, improving social media sites and providing comprehensive geriatric assessments can enhance the present social support status of the geriatric population.