Active aging profiles mediate the effect of social support on subjective well-being among community-dwelling older adults: a latent profile mediation analysis

Subjective well-being is a key measure of psychological health in older adults. However, limited research has explored how social support and patterns of active aging combine to influence well-being. This study aims to identify active aging profiles and assess their roles as mediators between social support and subjective well-being in community-dwelling older adults. A cross‑sectional survey was conducted among 482 community-dwelling older adults from four communities in China between January and May 2025. Participants completed the Chinese versions of the Social Support Rating Scale, Active Aging Scale, and Memorial University of Newfoundland Scale of Happiness. Latent profile analysis identified active aging profiles, and mediation analysis tested the indirect effects of social support on subjective well-being through active aging. Among 435 respondents, the mean subjective well‑being score was 18.69 ± 16.44, reflecting relatively low subjective well-being. Three active-aging profiles emerged: high active aging (46.7%), moderate active aging (29.9%), and low active aging (23.4%). Social support was positively correlated with active aging and subjective well-being. Mediation analysis revealed that a high active aging profile significantly mediated the association between social support and subjective well-being. Social support and active aging profiles are important determinants of subjective well-being in older adults. Interventions that strengthen social support and encourage high levels of active aging may effectively promote health and engagement in community-dwelling older adults.