The Relationship Between Social Support and Happiness Among Older Adults at Puskesmas Walenrang, South Sulawesi

Nurul Baslia (Nursing Department, STRADA Indonesia University, East Java, Indonesia)
Putri Pamungkas (Nursing Department, Institut Kesehatan dan Bisnis Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia)

Indonesian Nursing Journal
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): July 2026

Background: Happiness is an important indicator of successful aging among older adults. However, many older adults experience decreased well-being due to loneliness, declining health, and reduced social interaction. Social support from family, peers, and the community plays a crucial role in maintaining psychological well-being and happiness in later life. In primary healthcare settings such as Puskesmas Walenrang, South Sulawesi, understanding the influence of social support is essential to improve elderly care services. Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between social support and happiness among older adults at Puskesmas Walenrang, South Sulawesi. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 80 older adults aged ≥60 years selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using validated questionnaires measuring perceived social support and happiness levels. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Sperman correlation to determine the relationship and influence between social support and happiness. Results: The findings showed a significant positive relationship between social support and happiness among older adults (r = 0.62; p = 0.001). Participants who received higher levels of emotional, instrumental, and informational support reported higher happiness levels and better psychological well-being. Older adults with strong family and community support also experienced lower levels of loneliness and emotional distress. Social support was identified as a significant predictor of happiness. Conclusion: Social support plays a vital role in enhancing happiness among older adults. Strengthening family involvement and community-based support programs through primary healthcare services is essential to improve the quality of life of older adults. These findings highlight the importance of nursing interventions focused on family engagement, psychosocial support, and community participation to promote healthy and successful aging among older adults.