Abstract: Social functioning in the elderly is the essential element of health aging. This article reviews the definition and evaluation of social functioning, social functioning theories related to subjective well-being, and influences on subjective well-being affected by social functioning. In the guidance of negative and positive aging viewpoints, there existed two research trends in this field: the former excessively emphasized on social support, pursued the hedonia well-being, while the latter paid attention on social participation, sought for the eudaimonia well-being. Taking positive aging as guiding point of view, further researches should emphasize on active social participation and eudaimonia well-being, and carry out related intervention programs as well.

Key words: elderly, social functioning, health, subjective well-being, social support, social participation