How older adults fulfill their retirement plans relates to positive mental health: a path model analysis of social activity and self-esteem

Retirement planning fulfillment is necessary for older adults to adapt to later life and maintain their quality of life. This study investigates the internal mechanisms between retirement planning fulfillment and positive mental health among older adults. 1200 Chinese older adults (M_age = 68.49, SD = 7.27; 57% female) completed a questionnaire package measuring retirement planning fulfillment, positive mental health, post-retirement social activities, and self-esteem. Results indicated that older adults in rural areas had significantly lower retirement planning fulfillment than those in urban areas. Retirement planning fulfillment was positively associated with social activity, self-esteem, and positive mental health. Social activities and self-esteem mediated the relationship between retirement planning fulfillment and positive mental health. This study suggests the need for further investigation of retirement planning fulfillment, which helps improve older adults’ ability to cope with later life.