Assessment of the domains of quality of life in the geriatric population

BACKGROUND: The number of studies from India on geriatric health problems, particularly mental health disorders and quality of life, is limited. AIM: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the geriatric population visiting the Dr T.M.A. Pai Rotary Hospital, Karkala, Karnataka. It examined the different domains of quality of life according to sociodemographic variables. METHODS: We studied 70 individuals in the geriatric age group (≥60 years) who visited the hospital over a period of two months from March 2003 to April 2003. The results were expressed in terms of mean and SE of mean. Z-test and one-way ANOVA test were applied to compare the mean scores of different variables under the four domains. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The total mean score, as well as the mean scores in each of the four domains studied were similar in men and women as well as literates and illiterates. The mean scores of subjects in various age groups differed significantly in the domains of physical, psychological and social relations, while single and married subjects differed significantly in the domains of environmental and social relations. Overall well-being was significantly affected in those who were single (unmarried/widowed) or in the age group of 60–69 years.