The Relationship Between Perceived Social Support and Lifestyle in Middle-Aged Females of Ahvaz, Iran

Abstract

Background: Females’ health is the growth indicator of countries. To maintain and promote health is essential to correct and improve lifestyle. Objectives: Accordingly, the current study aimed to determine the relationship between social support and life style. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 700 middle-aged females were selected by random multistage cluster sampling method in Ahvaz, Iran. The data were collected using demographic questionnaire, the personal resource questionnaire (PRQ 85- Part II perceived social support) and lifestyle questionnaire (LSQ). Data were analyzed by the Spearman correlation coefficient, ANOVA and linear regression. Results: Results showed significant association between total score of perceived social support and lifestyle (P > 0.001). Regression results showed a significant relationship among the variables; only variables of perceived social support, economic status, health status, family structure and education of husband were significantly associated with lifestyle (P < 0.05). Also total score of social support and the dimensions had a direct and positive correlation with lifestyle. Conclusions: Perceived social support has a strong and positive association with lifestyle; interventions of social support should be considered in programs to improve lifestyle in such females.