Factors Influencing Mental Well-being Among Older Malaysians

• Published in: Asia-Pacific journal of public health 2024-11, Vol.36 (8), p.705-710
• Main Authors: Apalasamy, Yamunah Devi, Awang, Halimah, Mansor, Norma, Othman, Azmah, Jani, Rohana, Nik Osman, Nik Noor Ainoon, Tan, Chin Lung
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Female; Health Status; Humans; Malaysia; Male; Mental Health - statistics & numerical data; Middle Aged; Psychological Well-Being
• ISSN: 1010-5395; 1941-2479; 1941-2479
• DOI: 10.1177/10105395241275232

Older adults are at greater risk of mental health issues. This study examined the factors influencing mental well-being among 2230 Malaysian older adults, using data from the 2018 to 2019 Malaysia Ageing and Retirement Survey. The World Health Organization–Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) was used to assess mental well-being, and linear regression analysis identified the significant factors. Women had lower mental well-being scores than men (P = .012, β = −0.016). Chinese (P = .024, β = −0.020), Indian (P < .001, β = −0.043), and other ethnicities (P < .001, β = −0.031) reported lower scores than Malays. The factors associated with better well-being were secondary (P = .001, β = 0.032) and tertiary education (P < .001, β = 0.063), and good (P < .001, β = 0.081) and moderate (P < .001, β = 0.038) health status. Diseases-limiting activities were associated with poor well-being (P < .001, β = −0.030). Support from family (P < .001, β = 0.062) and friends (P < .001, β = 0.032), social activity participation (P < .001, β = 0.026), and functional ability (P < .001, β = 0.043) were significant positive factors. There is a need for targeted interventions to enhance mental health among Malaysian older adults.