Prosociality and its associated factors among Iranian older adults: A cross-sectional analysis

Prosociality, defined as behaviors intended to benefit others, is vital for maintaining social connections and well-being in older adults. This study aimed to investigate prosociality and its associated factors among Iranian older adults in 2023. This cross-sectional study included 392 older adults from Qom, Iran, who were selected through a multistage sampling process. Data were collected using a questionnaire that included the Older Adults’ Prosociality Scale (OAPS), Community Integration Measure, and WHO Well-being Index. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, t-tests, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression, were performed using SPSS 24. The mean prosociality score was 56.99 ± 8.41. The highest subscale score was for “prosocial dispositions” (20.58 ± 2.89), and the lowest was for “formal planned helping” (9.44 ± 3.31). Regression analysis identified community integration (β = 0.456, p < .001) and socioeconomic status (β = –0.092, p < .05) as significant predictors of prosociality. Collectively, the model explained 26.5% of the variance in prosociality. The low score for formal planned helping highlights the need for approaches to promote this aspect of prosociality. Enhancing community integration and alleviating financial concerns may foster greater prosociality among older adults.