Being and becoming spouseless in later life: Social support and participation as moderators of psychological well-being

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between marital status and marital transitions with psychological well-being among older adults in Taiwan, and the moderating effects of social support and social participation on these relationships. The Taiwan Longitudinal Survey on Aging data were analyzed to extend current understanding. Participants from eight waves from 1993 to 2019, in total 12,731 older adults, were included. Widowed, separated, or divorced older adults showed higher levels of depression and lower life satisfaction than married individuals. Remaining spouseless or losing a spouse between waves was also associated with lower life satisfaction and higher depressive symptoms. Receiving emotional support from family or friends demonstrated greater potential than social participation in mitigating the psychological impacts of spousal loss or absence, however, receiving negative support was significantly related to higher level of depressive symptoms and lower life satisfaction. Various social participation showed different effects for the never married, widowed, or separated/divorced older adults. The findings highlight the distinct role of limited family ties─spousal status in shaping psychological well-being in later life. Older adults without spouses require more individualized and culturally sensitive support systems.