Quality of life and status of physical functioning among elderly people in west region of Tehran: a cross-sectional survey

ABSTRACT

Elderly is a sensitive period and quality of life in elderly is of great importance that should not be ignored. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between quality of life and status of physical functioning among elderly people in west region of Tehran. This was a descriptive-correlational study. Through multistage sampling method, 410 participants over 60 years old and cognitively intact were selected to participate in the study. The data-gathering tool consisted of a 2-part questionnaire Short Form Health Survey [SF12] used to measure quality of life, questions related to status of physical functioning which includes activities of daily living [ADLs] and instrumental activities of daily living [IADLs]. The result of the study showed that there was statistically significant correlation between quality of life among elderly and their "status of physical functioning [ADLs and IADLs]", "gender", "education', "economic status" and "present health status" [P < 0.05]. Also, the results showed that the mean quality of life score of the participants was 32.84 [SD=8.89, range 12-48], indicating that they evaluate their quality of life as moderate. The mean score of ADLs was 13.54 [SD=1.53, range 0-14], and the mean score of IADLs was 14.20 [SD=3.717, range 0-18], which indicated total independence. Regarding the results, the quality of life and status of physical functioning are related meaningfully indicating that older people should be considered as vulnerable group. The researchers suggest health authorities to provide this group with programs and facilities for promotion of their physical functioning, and also, suggest prospective studies to be conducted in this issue