The Effect of Intergenerational Life Satisfaction Levels on Attitudes Towards the Older Adults: The Case of Konya Province

Objective This research aimed to examine the effect of life satisfaction levels across four different generations (Baby Boomers, Generation X, Y, and Z) on their attitudes toward older people. Methods This cross-sectional and exploratory research was conducted in Konya, Türkiye. Data were collected online via Google Forms using a socio-demographic information form, the Adult Life Satisfaction Scale, and the Kogan Attitude Toward the Elderly Scale. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Spearman correlation, and regression analyses, with significance levels set at p < 0.05 and p < 0.01. Findings: Among the participants, 70.5% were aged 18–24, and 78.1% were women. No significant differences were found in attitudes toward the older adults based on demographic characteristics (p > 0.05). However, a weak but statistically significant positive correlation was observed between overall life satisfaction and attitudes toward older adults (r = 0.214; p = 0.002). Life satisfaction levels significantly differed according to participants’ educational status, income perception, and health condition (p < 0.05). Regression analysis indicated that life satisfaction explained approximately 4.6% of the variance in attitudes toward the older adults. Conclusion The findings suggest that higher life satisfaction is associated with more positive attitudes toward older individuals. Educational status, income level, and health were identified as key factors influencing life satisfaction. Consequently, developing nursing and social interventions that enhance life satisfaction may help foster intergenerational understanding and promote more positive attitudes toward the older adults in society.