Research on the urban-rural differences and influencing factors of life satisfaction among elderly people in China

Abstract

Objective To analyze the differences in life satisfaction and the factors that influence it among elderly people in urban and rural locations in China and to provide a reference for narrowing these differences. Methods Binary logistic regression was used to analyze 2018 data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) to understand the status of life satisfaction and urban-rural differences among the elderly. Results Among 4,910 elderly participants, the overall life satisfaction rate was 72.5% (3,560/4,910). The life satisfaction rate was higher in urban areas (75.5%) compared to rural areas (68.0%), with a statistically significant difference (χ²=33.817, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that residence was an independent factor influencing life satisfaction among urban elderly ( P < 0.05), while marital status and smoking status were independent factors among rural elderly ( P < 0.05). Conclusion The study found significant urban-rural differences in life satisfaction among the elderly, with higher satisfaction in urban areas. Key factors influencing life satisfaction varied between urban and rural settings. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities and improve the well-being of China’s elderly population.