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Life Satisfaction Index
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About Life Satisfaction Index
Scale Name
Life Satisfaction Index
Author Details
Bernice L. Neugarten and Robert J. Havighurst
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The Life Satisfaction Index (LSI), developed by Bernice L. Neugarten and Robert J. Havighurst in 1961, is a self-report questionnaire designed to measure general feelings of well-being and successful aging among older adults. Published in Journal of Gerontology (1961), the LSI conceptualizes life satisfaction as encompassing five components: zest (vs. apathy), resolution and fortitude, congruence between desired and achieved goals, positive self-concept, and mood tone. It avoids the term “adjustment” to steer clear of implying conformity and uses “life satisfaction” to capture morale and psychological well-being. The primary version, LSIA, includes 20 items (12 positive, 8 negative) with an agree/disagree format, scored as 0 (dissatisfaction) or 1 (satisfaction) for a 0–20 range, or a 3-point scale (2 = satisfied, 1 = uncertain, 0 = dissatisfied) for a 0–40 range. Variants include LSIB (12 items, 3-point scale), LSIZ (13 items), and an 18-item LSIA.
The LSIA was empirically developed by selecting items that differentiated high and low life satisfaction based on the Life Satisfaction Rating Scale, a clinician-scored measure. The LSI was validated with ~50–2,651 adults (mean age ≈ 50–90 years, mixed gender, U.S.-based), correlating with the Life Satisfaction Rating Scale (r = 0.55–0.56). It is used in gerontology, clinical psychology, and public health to assess well-being in aging populations. Access requires permission from Journal of Gerontology or the authors.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the LSIA from Neugarten et al. (1961) or Journal of Gerontology, ensuring ethical permissions.
- Explain to participants (older adults 50+ in community or clinical settings) that the questionnaire assesses life satisfaction, emphasizing confidentiality and voluntary participation.
- Administer the 20-item LSIA via self-report in survey or clinical settings, using paper or digital formats, with agree/disagree or 3-point response options based on current feelings.
- Estimated completion time is 5–10 minutes.
- Ensure a private, supportive environment; provide mental health or geriatric resources (e.g., counseling services) and adapt for accessibility (e.g., large print, oral administration) if needed.
Reliability and Validity
The LSI demonstrates acceptable psychometric properties (Neugarten et al., 1961). Internal consistency for the LSIA is moderate (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.74–0.80 for 13–18 items, N = 264–1,288), with higher values for a 10-item subset (alpha = 0.90). Alpha for LSIZ is 0.79–0.84, but lower in depressed elderly (Kuder-Richardson-20 = 0.11–0.60). Test-retest reliability for LSIZ ranges from 0.80–0.90 (N not specified, chronic disease samples).
Convergent validity is supported by correlations with the Life Satisfaction Rating Scale (r = 0.55–0.56, N = 51–92), Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (r = 0.74, nursing-home sample), and Kutner Morale Scale (r ≈ 0.60–0.70). Correlations with Bradburn’s Affect Balance Scale are 0.33 (positive affect) and -0.39 (negative affect). Factor analysis identifies three to five factors (mood tone, zest, congruence, optimism), with a general well-being factor (34% variance). Discriminant validity is shown by varying congruence across age groups. The LSI detects well-being differences in aging populations. Pairing with the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale or Affect Balance Scale enhances comprehensive assessment.
Available Versions
20-Items
Reference
Neugarten, B. L., Havighurst, R. J., & Tobin, S. S. (1961). The measurement of life satisfaction. Journal of gerontology.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Life Satisfaction Index measure?
It measures life satisfaction in older adults via zest, resolution, goal congruence, self-concept, and mood tone.
Who is the target population?
Older adults (50+) in community or clinical settings for aging research.
How long does it take to administer?
Approximately 5–10 minutes.
Can it inform interventions?
Yes, it assesses well-being to guide geriatric mental health interventions.
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