Perceptions of Weil-Being Among the Older Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Populations in the United States

Abstract

The relationships were examined between selected socipdemographic variables and perceptions of well-being among residents 60 years and older of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas in the United States. Multiple regression models were used in analyzing data from the 1982–1991 NORC General Social Survey. Such sociodemographic variables as gender, race, marital status, education, financial status, place of residence, religious membership, and religious attendance were independent variables. A composite score of perceptions of well-being was the dependent variable. Race, marital status, education, financial status, religious attendance, and place of residence were important to well-being; gender and religious membership were not significant. The effects of nonmetropolitan living also significantly enhanced perceptions of well-being. Other facets of mental health in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas were also examined.