Low enrollment intention threatens the funding pools of rural insurance schemes in developing countries. The purpose of this study is to investigate how social capital enhances the enrollment of health insurance among rural middle-aged and elderly. We propose that social capital directly increases health insurance enrollment, while indirectly influences health insurance through health risk avoidance. We used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (wave 4) dating the year of 2018, instrumental variable estimation was introduced to deal with the endogeneity problem, and the mediation analysis was used to examine the mechanism of social capital on insurance enrollment. The results show that social capital is positively related to social health insurance enrollment, and the relationship between social capital and social health insurance enrollment is mediated by health risk avoidance.

The consumption of dietary supplements among the elderly is on the rise. Despite the potential benefits, a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making processes leading to the consumption is lacking. This study explores the conditions influencing the decision-making and behavioral patterns of older adults related to dietary supplement consumption. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 elderly participants from a seniors’ club in Bangkok, Thailand, who had consistently consumed dietary supplements for at least one year. The behavior was classified into five primary categories: enduring use of identical dietary supplements, insufficient regard for health compatibility, replacing medications with supplements, not verifying before consumption, and opting for supplements over medical treatments. These patterns are aligned with the core constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control). Many individuals perceive supplements as pivotal health investments, while others view them as a direct route to robust health. Trusted advice from friends and television significantly influence their choices, with a prevailing sentiment that dietary supplements are generally safe. The high price tag on supplements is often associated with superior quality. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of dietary supplement consumption decisions among the Thai elderly, suggesting the need for interventions to promote safer and more informed choices.