Relationship Between Attitudes Toward Aging and Functional Ability: Mediating Role of Mental Health and Difference by Urban-rural Residence

Ageism has serious and wide-ranging consequences for the health and well-being of older adults worldwide. It involves stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination against people based on their age. In a competitive modern society, these effects can be even more pronounced among urban older adults, where the fast-paced environment may exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and isolation. This study examines the association between attitudes toward aging, depressive symptoms, and physical ability among older adults, focusing on the differences between rural and urban populations. Specifically, it seeks to understand how these attitudes and associated factors impact functional health differently in diverse settings. The research used cross-sectional data from 10,382 participants across various regions in China, with 64.6% being urban residents and 35.4% being rural residents. Participants were surveyed to assess their attitudes toward aging, levels of depressive symptoms, and physical abilities. The association between attitudes toward aging and functional ability was analyzed using linear regression models, allowing for adjustments in demographic variables such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status.