Biopsychosocial determinants of positive mental health in older adults: a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Positive mental health is essential to healthy aging, yet the factors shaping mental health among older adults in low- and middle-income settings remain insufficiently synthesized. This review examined the biopsychosocial determinants of positive mental health among older adults in Nigeria and Bangladesh. Materials and methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, five databases—MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ERIC, and Academic Search Premier—were searched using predefined keywords and search terms for English-language empirical studies within 2000 to 2024. The search identified 1394 records. After 439 duplicates were removed, 955 records underwent title and abstract screening, leaving 172 records for additional independent screening and consensus. Following this, 36 articles were assessed for eligibility and 14 met the inclusion criteria for data charting and narrative synthesis using a structured extraction template informed by the Biopsychosocial Model. Results: Prevalent determinants of positive mental health include internalizing symptoms, limited family/social support and engagement, functional disability, and economic adversity. Country-specific patterns were evident. In Nigeria, determinants include marital status, number of children, social isolation versus perceived social support, functional limitations, and constructs related to successful aging. In Bangladesh, additional determinants include physical health, religiosity, pain and discomfort, and self-esteem. Conclusions: Positive mental health among older adults in Nigeria and Bangladesh is influenced by interacting biological, psychological, and social determinants. These findings may inform the development of integrated interventions to promote mental well-being and improve quality of life among older adults in these settings.