The impact of basic psychological needs satisfaction of the elderly on well-being: a moderated mediation analysis of affect and aging self-perceptions

The aging of the global population highlights the importance of well-being among older adults. This study examines the effect of basic psychological needs satisfaction on well-being, in line with self-determination theory. The study investigates how this effect occurs through affective mediation and how it is influenced by perceptions of aging. Data were gathered from 818 older adults regarding their basic psychological needs satisfaction, positive and negative affect, well-being, and attitudes toward aging. Controlling for age and physical health, the results show that the satisfaction of psychological needs results in an increase in positive affect and a decrease in negative affect, ultimately shaping well-being. The variability among individuals becomes apparent through the crucial role of aging self-perceptions in moderating this effect. This study is significant because it reveals how affect mediates basic psychological needs satisfaction and well-being while emphasizing the relevance of aging self-perceptions. Practical implications include shaping gerontological education and effective engagement strategies with the elderly demographic.