Quality of life of generations X, Y, and Z in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional comparative analysis

Understanding differences in quality of life (QOL) across generations is crucial for directing targeted public health initiatives in Saudi Arabia.

To compare the QOL levels of generations X, Y, and Z in Saudi Arabia.

In this cross-sectional study, 425 Saudi adults completed an online questionnaire, which included sociodemographic variables and the validated Arabic version of the WHOQOL-BREF. Data normality was confirmed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Group differences were analyzed using independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA, with Bonferroni-adjusted post-hoc comparisons and effect sizes (Cohen's d, η²). Pearson's correlations examined associations among QOL domains. Multivariate linear regression and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to identify predictors of QOL while controlling for potential confounders, including age, sex, marital status, education, and social media use.

Physical health had the lowest mean score among QOL domains. Gen X reported significantly higher physical health than Gen Z (p = 0.007; η² = 0.02). Prolonged social media use was associated with lower psychological well-being (p = 0.013). Married participants reported better physical health (p = 0.003), and higher education was linked with better psychological (p = 0.047) and environmental health (p = 0.041). Further, social relationships strongly correlated with environmental health (r = 0.715, p < 0.001). In the regression and SEM models, age, education, and social media use emerged as significant predictors of QOL, while health satisfaction had the strongest positive effect (β = 0.498, p < 0.05).

Differences in QOL among generations were modest and significantly mediated by behavioral and sociodemographic factors rather than age. Education, health behaviors, and perceived health satisfaction emerged as the most salient influences on well-being. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing modifiable lifestyle and social determinants of wellbeing through evidence-based public-health strategies to enhance overall QOL across generations.