The mediating role of sense of control and hope in the relationship between social competence and psychological well-being of the Iranian elderly

OBJECTIVES: Growing attention has been directed toward elderly mental health as aging populations face distinct emotional challenges. This study examined whether sense of control and hope mediate the relationship between social competence and psychological well-being in older adults. METHOD: A descriptive-correlational study was conducted in 2024 with 350 elderly participants (≥60 years) from Zanjan, Iran, using convenience sampling. Validated questionnaires assessed psychological well-being (Ryff's scale), sense of control (Shapiro's questionnaire), hope (Miller's questionnaire), and social competence (Parandin's questionnaire). Pearson's correlation and structural equation modeling (SPSS-26, LISREL-10.2) were employed. RESULTS: = 0.24). Path analysis confirmed social competence significantly predicted psychological well-being, mediated by hope and sense of control. CONCLUSION: Social competence, sense of control, and hope are meaningfully related to psychological well-being in older adults. Strengthening these psychological components may improve mental health outcomes. Findings suggest developing interventions promoting social competence, personal control, and optimism in aging populations.