The Role of Gerotranscendence Theory and Physical, Psychological, and Social Determinants in Predicting Life Satisfaction: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis.

BACKGROUND: (1) Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a structural model of life satisfaction in older adults, integrating the World Health Organization's biopsychosocial determinants and the theory of gerotranscendence to provide a more holistic understanding of the aging experience. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 600 older adults (≥60 years) residing in Tehran, selected through proportional random sampling. Data was collected via validated instruments assessing demographic factors, physical and mental health, social support, environmental condition quality, and gerotranscendence. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS 24 and hierarchical regression were employed for data analysis. (3) Results: The findings revealed that physical health, mental health, social support, environmental conditions, and gerotranscendence were all significantly associated with life satisfaction (p < 0.01). Hierarchical regression analysis showed that gerotranscendence remained an independent and significant predictor of life satisfaction, even after accounting for other variables. The final model explained approximately 39% of the variance in life satisfaction and demonstrated good fit indices (RMSEA = 0.051, CMIN/DF = 2.545, PCLOSE = 0.272, GFI = 0.815). (4) Conclusion: The proposed model offers a comprehensive framework for understanding life satisfaction in older adults, highlighting the unique contribution of gerotranscendence. These findings highlight the importance of integrated interventions that enhance physical and mental health, promote social and environmental well-being, and foster spiritual growth. Future research should consider longitudinal and mixed-method designs to further explore causal relationships and cultural contexts.