Meaning in Life, Social Support, and Happiness in Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Daily Activities

Background: Psychological well-being, meaning in life, social support, and daily activities are well-documented factors that significantly affect the psychological well-being of older adults. Nevertheless, research on the interactions among these variables and their collective impact on happiness is limited. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of meaning in life and social support on the overall happiness of older adults. Methods: A quantitative study employing a descriptive-analytic, cross-sectional design was conducted with 221 participants aged 65 and older who attended day-care centres in Pristina. The study used four validated instruments: the Pemberton Happiness Index (PHI), the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ), the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale (MSPSS), and the Groningen Activity Restriction Scale (GARS). The statistical analyses included linear regression and interaction effects, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Meaning in life (β = 0.614, p = 0.039) and social support (β = 7.695, p = 0.012) were significant positive predictors of happiness. GARS was not shown to have a direct main effect but emerged as a significant moderating factor. Interaction effects of MLQ × GARS (p = 0.037) and MSPSS × GARS (p < 0.001) showed that functional limitations strengthen the positive impact of meaning in life and social support on subjective well-being. Conclusions: Meaning in life and social support are important psychosocial determinants of well-being among older adults, particularly in the presence of functional limitations. The findings highlight the importance of integrated, person-centred approaches within community and healthcare services that address psychosocial well-being alongside functional capacity. Routine assessment of psychosocial and functional needs may support more effective interventions aimed at improving quality of life and healthy ageing among older adults.