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Abstract

Background: Happiness is crucial for healthy aging, particularly in the post-COVID-19 context, as older adults face evolving social and psychological challenges. This study investigates the key factors influencing happiness among socially active older adults in Northern Thailand, focusing on income, regular physical exercise, and depressive symptoms as primary predictors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 798 socially active older adults, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected between June and July 2024 using a self-administered questionnaire, which included the Thai Geriatric Depression Scale (TGDS) and the Gross National Happiness (GNH) Questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis using the enter method was employed to examine the relationships between happiness and selected independent variables.

Results: Three significant predictors of happiness were identified: income (B = 1.629, p < 0.001), exercise (B = 1.598, p < 0.001), and depression (B = -0.345, p < 0.001). Together, these variables accounted for 15.1% of the variance in happiness (R² = 0.151).

Conclusion: Among socially active older adults, happiness is influenced by financial stability, regular exercise, and low levels of depression. Interventions aimed at improving income security, promoting physical activity, and providing mental health support are essential components of holistic strategies to improve quality of life and enhance well-being in this demographic.

Keywords: Happiness, Older Adults, Income, Exercise, Depression, Post-COVID-19 Era, Thailand

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