The mediating role of emotional intelligence in ageism: A cross-sectional study

Ageism is a widespread social problem that negatively affects the well-being and inclusion of older adults. Emotional intelligence, which refers to the ability to understand and manage one's own and others' emotions, may play an important role in shaping attitudes towards the older adults. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between individuals' positive and negative ageism attitudes and their emotional intelligence levels and to examine whether emotional intelligence is associated with positive attitudes towards older adults and to test its potential mediating role. Specifically, within the context of nursing and psychiatric care, identifying these factors is crucial for developing educational strategies that reduce implicit biases and enhance the quality of person-centered care for older patients.

This descriptive cross-sectional study included 638 participants. Data were collected using the Positive and Negative Ageism Scale (PNAS) and the Rotterdam Emotional Intelligence Scale (REIS). Relationships, group differences, and mediation effects among variables were statistically examined.

There were significant positive correlations between PNAS total score and REIS total and subscale scores (r = 0.328, p < 0.001). PNAS total score was significantly influenced by having older adults in the family, the relationship with older adults in the family, the frequency of interaction with them, experience in caring for older adults, and REIS total and sub-dimensions (p < 0.001).

Emotional intelligence and regular contact with older adults may play a role in reducing ageism by fostering positive attitudes towards them. This highlights the need for nursing curricula to combine emotional intelligence with direct clinical contact to reduce implicit bias and enhance care quality for older adults.