Sources of Social Support and Its Role in The Prevention of Diseases Among the Older Adults

Social support is a critical factor in helping older adults prevent diseases and reduce health risks as they age. The connection between social networks and health outcomes highlights the importance of understanding how various sources of support contribute to disease prevention, particularly with the growing prevalence of chronic health conditions among older adults. This study aims to examine both informal and formal sources of social support in mitigating health risks among Malaysian older adults. Using a qualitative case study approach, 24 older adults from Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas (PAWE), an activity centre for older adults, were interviewed to gain detailed insights into their experiences. The study findings were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that family serves as the primary support system, providing emotional and practical assistance essential for health maintenance. Additionally, friends, neighbours, community organizations and government initiatives play complementary roles by offering social interaction, mutual aid and access to healthcare resources. These diverse support systems collectively enhance disease prevention efforts by promoting healthier lifestyles and mitigating health risks. The findings emphasize the need to strengthen these social networks to improve disease prevention efforts and enhance the quality of life for older Malaysians. Future research should explore the most effective forms of social support in promoting health and investigate the potential of digital platforms in broadening access to support, given their growing importance in this digital age.