Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background Rapid population ageing in India raises important questions about the social, economic, and health factors affecting well-being in later life. Life satisfaction is a key aspect of subjective well-being, yet evidence on the demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related determinants of life satisfaction among older Indians remains limited. Objective This study examines the factors associated with life satisfaction among older adults in India, with particular emphasis on socio-demographic characteristics, economic conditions, living arrangements, health status, functional limitations, and lifestyle behaviours. Methods The study utilises data from the first wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI, 2017–18), a nationally representative survey of older adults. The analysis is restricted to individuals aged 60 years and above (N = 30,204). Life satisfaction, measured on a seven-point ordinal scale, is analysed using ordered probit regression models. To facilitate substantive interpretation, marginal effects are estimated for selected life satisfaction categories. Results Higher education, better economic status, and living with a spouse and children were positively associated with life satisfaction. Good self-rated health was a strong predictor of higher life satisfaction, while depression, functional limitations, and unhealthy behaviours such as alcohol and tobacco use were associated with lower life satisfaction. Disparities across gender, caste, religion, and place of residence indicate that social and economic inequalities continue to shape well-being in later life. Conclusions Life satisfaction among older adults in India is shaped by a combination of socioeconomic, family, and health-related factors. Policies aimed at improving educational access, strengthening family and social support systems, ensuring economic security, and expanding access to physical and mental healthcare services are essential for promoting well-being among India's ageing population. Contribution This study provides comprehensive evidence on the determinants of life satisfaction among older adults in India using nationally representative data. Existing work rarely integrates socio-demographic, economic, family, and health dimensions simultaneously within a nationally representative framework. This study addresses that gap by providing a comprehensive, multi-dimensional analysis of life satisfaction.</p>