The relationship between physical activity and subjective well-being among Chinese older adults: The mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating role of gender

This study investigated the mediating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between physical activity and subjective well-being among older adults, considering gender as a moderating factor. Results showed significant gender differences, with males reporting higher physical activity and resilience but lower subjective well-being than females (p < 0.05). Physical activity and psychological resilience were positively correlated with subjective well-being (p < 0.01). Psychological resilience mediated the relationship between physical activity and subjective well-being, comprising 48.41 % of the total effect. Gender moderated the effect of physical activity on psychological resilience, with a stronger impact in females. These findings suggest that physical activity enhances subjective well-being in older adults directly and indirectly through psychological resilience.