Predictors of life satisfaction in adults with type 2 diabetes

This study examined whether age, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), health-related quality of life (HRQOL), affect, and perceived emotional intelligence (PEI) predicted the level of life satisfaction in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study included 131 adults with T2D aged 21 to 85 years (mean= 55.76, SD= 12.03). Psychological constructs were measured through the following questionnaires: SWLS (life satisfaction), TMMS-24 (PEI), PANAS (affect), and DQOL (HRQOL). HbA1c levels were obtained from medical records. The results showed that the participants presented high levels of life satisfaction. Higher life satisfaction was associated with older age, greater emotional clarity and repair, positive affect (PA), HRQOL, greater satisfaction with treatment, impact of treatment, and general well-being. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that age (β= .16, p<.05), PA (β= .35, p<.001), satisfaction with treatment (β= -.26, p<.01), and general well-being (β= -.16, p<.05) were significant predictors of patient’s life satisfaction. The model explained 42% of the variance in life satisfaction. PA was the most significant predictor, highlighting the need for therapeutic approaches that address both the physical and emotional aspects of diabetes management. Finally, the influence of PEI—particularly emotional repair—on life satisfaction through PA is emphasized. Practical implications, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.