Background: The concept of social participation is highly valued in old age. However, it differs among the elderly. Also based on the culture and ethnicity, levels of affection also vary. This study aims to clarify the concept of social participation and different factors contributing in order to achieve social participation among elderly people.

Methods: For literature, comprehensive computerized search was done on WOS, Science direct, National Library of Medicine (Pubmed), DOAJ, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Pubmed central and Oxford Press. The published papers from 2006 to 2019 were searched. 18 articles related to the social participation and factors affecting it were included in the study and accordingly, the data were extracted after reviewing the resources.

Results: The factors affecting social participation included emphasis on community-based activities and interpersonal interactions, based on resource sharing, active participation and individual satisfaction. Social participation among the elderly people had individual, environmental, social and environmental consequences.