Measuring the quality of life among elderly with osteoporosis

ABSTRACT

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by a low bone mass and bone architectural derangements, leading to an increased fracture risk. The quality of live of osteoporotic elderly is extremely complex; while better identification of risk factors can reduce morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the quality of life among elderly with osteoporosis. Medical hospital outpatient clink of El-Mansoura University and two family health care centers were chosen as the study settings. The study sample comprised 57 elder males and 123 females aged 60 years and over with osteoporosis. Two validated questionnaires of ECOS-16 for quality of life in elders with osteoporosis were used. The study confirms that prevalence of osteoporosis is likely to be associated with lower Ecos-16 score. Physical function, emotional status, and overall QOL were significantly and negatively associated with the prevalence of osteoporosis. Moreover the study results revealed that elderly women with osteoporosis had a low quality of life such as chronic pain, reduce physical and emotional activity. Elder men manifested emotional changes more than elder women. The study recommended to develop strategies to improve the QOL of osteoporotic elders, emphasizing the importance of well balanced diet, physical, social and recreational activities. Helping those with osteoporosis to maintain or improve their enjoyment activities may help to improve their quality of lift