Modeling the Quality of Life in Older Adults Based on Smartphone Use: The Mediating Role of Perceived Social Support and Personality Traits

Mohammad  Ebrahimi; Peyman  Ghalandari; Mohammad  Rostami

doi:10.18502/ehj.v11i2.20711

Mohammad Ebrahimi Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
Peyman Ghalandari Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
Mohammad Rostami Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ehj.v11i2.20711

Keywords: Smartphone, Quality of Life, Perceived Social Support, Personality Traits

Abstract

Introduction: The use of accessible technologies and their practical applications can play a significant role in helping older adults overcome physical and cognitive limitations, frustration, or the loss of active roles in life. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between smartphone use and quality of life, examining the mediating roles of personality traits and perceived social support among Iranian older adults.

Methods: This cross-sectional correlational study employed structural equation modeling (SEM). A total of 300 older adults were selected using purposive sampling. The instruments included a researcher-developed questionnaire on smartphone use, the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale for Older Adults, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory. Data were analyzed using SEM and multiple regression.

Results: Smartphone use was significantly correlated with quality of life (p < 0.01). Regression analysis showed that perceived social support (β = 0.235, P < 0.01), emotional stability (β = 0.201, p < 0.01), and openness (β = 0.117, p < 0.05) significantly predicted quality of life among older adults. Furthermore, openness and perceived social support mediated the indirect relationship between smartphone use and quality of life. In addition, extraversion and perceived social support jointly served as combined mediators between the predictor and criterion variables.

Conclusion: Smartphone use through the mediating effect of perceived social support, particularly when accompanied by the personality traits of extraversion and openness—can enhance and improve the quality of life in older adults.