Perceptions of well-being among the older metropolitan and nonmetropolitan populations in the United States.

The relationships were examined between selected sociodemographic variables and perceptions of well-being among residents 60 years and older of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas in the United States. Multiple regression models were used in analyzing data from the 1982-1991 NORC General Social Survey. Such sociodemographic variables as gender, race, marital status, education, financial status, place of residence, religious membership, and religious attendance were independent variables. A composite score of perceptions of well-being was the dependent variable. Race, marital status, education, financial status, religious attendance, and place of residence were important to well-being; gender and religious membership were not significant. The effects of nonmetropolitan living also significantly enhanced perceptions of well-being. Other facets of mental health in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas were also examined.