A multidimensional model of the quality of life in older age

Aging Ment Health. 2002 Nov;6(4):355-71. doi: 10.1080/1360786021000006983.

Abstract

The broad aim of the research presented here was to define the constituents and indicators of quality of life (QoL) in older age, in order to offer a more multidimensional and useful model of quality of life, based on the perspectives of older people themselves. This paper focuses on the extent to which self-evaluations of global QoL are influenced by health, psychological and social variables, and social circumstances. It reports the results of a national survey of the quality of life in people aged 65 and over, living at home in Britain. Multiple regression analysis with the self-evaluation of quality of life rating as the dependent variable showed that the overall model (Model 9) of QoL indicators explained 26.7% of the variance in quality of life ratings. This is sizeable given the amorphous nature of this concept. The main independent predictors of self-rated global quality of life were: social comparisons and expectations, personality and psychological characteristics (optimism-pessimism), health and functional status and personal and neighbourhood social capital. These variables explained the highest proportion of the variance between groups in their quality of life ratings. Socio-economic indicators contributed relatively little to the model.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Educational Status
  • Female
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Income / statistics & numerical data
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Marital Status / statistics & numerical data
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Quality of Life / psychology*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Residence Characteristics / statistics & numerical data
  • Social Class
  • Social Support