The examination of the effect of alexithymia and perceived social support level on the quality of life in the elderly: The case of Çankırı

This study examines alexithymia, perceived social support levels, and the quality of life in older adults. This study aims to reveal the impact of alexithymia and social support on the quality of life in older adults. Another objective of this study is to identify the socio-demographic factors associated with the quality of life in older adults. The research was conducted using a relational survey model, and quantitative data collection techniques were employed. The data for this study were obtained from 294 female and 294 male participants aged 65 and over. The data were collected through the Personal Information Form, Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale (MSPSS) and the Quality of Life in Older Adults Scale (QLOAS). The obtained data were analyzed using independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance, hierarchical regression, and mediation analysis. According to the data obtained from the scales, the participants' alexithymia mean scores are high, while the mean scores for perceived social support and quality of life in older adults are at a moderate level. As a result of the comparison analyses, alexithymia and perceived social support scores in older adults show significant differences based on age, marital status, education level, health problems, methods of meeting care needs, and economic status. Significant correlation coefficients have been obtained between the variables. As a result of the analysis of factors predicting quality of life in older adults, it was found that the model created with alexithymia, perceived social support, and other demographic variables was statistically significant. In the relationship between alexithymia and perceived social support in older adults, the analysis of the mediation role of perceived family, friend, and significant other support revealed that the mediation role of friend support is significant. Based on the relationships between alexithymia, perceived social support, and quality of life in older adults, recommendations have been developed in the study.