Perceptions of Ageing and Psychological Well-Being in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

As global populations age, identifying modifiable factors to enhance later-life well-being is vital. Self-perceptions of ageing (SPA), internalised beliefs about one’s ageing, may shape psychological well-being (PWB). We synthesised 33 studies (n = 43,556). Random-effects models showed that more positive SPA related to higher PWB (pooled r = .35; I2≈ 89%). By domain: hedonic r = .24 (95% CI .09–.37); eudaimonic/relational r = .26 (95% CI −.50–.80; small k); self-evaluation r = .07 (95% CI −.41–.53); mental ill-health r = .21 (95% CI −.05–.44). Because higher mental-illness scores denote worse outcomes, the positive coefficient indicates an inverse relation (more positive SPA, less distress). Univariable moderators suggested stronger effects in Europe, larger SPA–hedonic associations with higher sample % married, and larger self-evaluation effects in longitudinal designs; none remained significant in the multivariable model. Findings position SPA as a culturally sensitive target for improving later-life well-being.