The Effects of Health Behavior and Health Status on Heath-related Quality of Life in Older People: Gender Analysis by using the 2012 Korea Health Panel Data

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to measure health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and to investigate the affecting factors according to gender in older adults by using the 2012 Korea Health Panel data. METHODS: The Korea Health Panel data 2012 were collected from February to August 2012 by Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs and National Health Insurance Corporation and the number of respondents were 1,921. The data were analyzed by t-test, chi-square, Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression using SPSS/WIN program. RESULTS: The limitation of activity was the most influential factor for health-related quality of life of both male and female. For male, the affecting factors on HRQoL were hearing problems and frustration. For female, the affecting factors on HRQoL were eating problems, depression and suicidal impulses. Drinking, moderate physical activities, vision problems and stress had a significant effect on HRQoL for both male and female. CONCLUSION: Health care providers should consider the differences between male and female when they design a program in order to improve HRQoL of older people.