Computing social capital index.

BackgroundThis study explores how non-communicable diseases (NCDs), social capital, and government grants (social grants) influence subjective well-being (SWB) among individuals aged 40 and older in rural South Africa. Understanding gender differences in these relationships provides insights for improving public health interventions in resource-constrained settings.MethodsData from 2,432 participants in the HAALSI Wave 3 study were analyzed to examine the predictors of SWB using regression models. Key covariates included age, education, marital status, employment, wealth, religion, social capital, and social grants. Interaction effects between NCDs, social capital, and social grants were evaluated, with gender-stratified analyses to explore disparities. SWB scores were computed, and statistical significance was assessed at various thresholds.ResultsAbout a third of the sample had hypertension (58%), one-fifth had diabetes (20%), and nearly two-fifths had depression (36%). Having an NCD) was significantly associated with lower subjective wellbeing (β = −0.855, p ConclusionsThese findings suggest that while NCDs significantly reduce wellbeing, social capital alone may not mitigate this burden, whereas targeted material support through grants may offer partial protection, particularly for men. We recommend the development of NCD financing strategies within the public healthcare funding schemes.