Perception of Ageing and Happiness among Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Qaemshahr, Iran

Background: Ageing is accompanied by psychological and social changes that can significantly affect quality of life. Happiness and perception of ageing are key components of mental health in later life and play a decisive role in adaptation and well-being among older adults. Given the importance of these factors, the present study aimed to examine the relationship between perception of ageing and happiness among older adults in Qaemshahr, Iran, in 2020. Methods: This descriptive–correlational study was conducted on 300 older adults covered by community health centers who met the inclusion criteria. Participants were selected using a stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Persian version of the Ageing Perceptions Questionnaire (APQ), and the Oxford Happiness Inventory (OHI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, percentage) and inferential statistics, including Spearman’s correlation coefficient, Mann–Whitney U test, and Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between perception of ageing and happiness among older adults (r = − 0.608, p < 0.001). Moreover, both perception of ageing and happiness were significantly associated with age, gender, economic status, cohabitation status, and level of dependency (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The results indicate that older adults’ perception of the ageing process plays a determining role in their level of happiness. Promoting a more positive attitude toward ageing can be an important strategy for enhancing mental health and quality of life in older adults. Psychosocial and educational interventions aimed at fostering a positive perception of ageing are therefore recommended.