Health related quality of life among elderly people living in selective old homes: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Quality of life is an important issue for determining successful ageing. As an increasing elderly population in the world different services system has been run to support the elderly people. Bangladesh currently experiences the significant increase of aging population with poverty and breakdown of various social and traditional bonds. Objective: This study was undertaken to assess the background profile and overall quality of life (QoL) with its predictors in elderly population living at old homes in Bangladesh. Methodology: This study was conducted by non-experimental cross-sectional study by using convenient sampling among 210 participants living at old homes. Data were collected using face to face interview with a semi-structured questionnaire and data were analyzed by using SPSS 26. In each domain of the Older People Quality of Life (OPQOL)-35, descriptive statistical analysis was presented analyzed using chi square test or Fisher’s Exact test. To compare the mean domains score of QoL, Student’s t-test and ANOVA test were used. Finally, to measure the correlations Bivariate analysis and for predictor of quality of life multivariate linear regression was done. Result: The findings indicated a mean Quality of Life (QoL) score of 103.46±12.72 and maximum elderly had an overall bad QoL. Across all domains, elderly males displayed higher mean scores, while elderly females exhibited lower mean scores in the overall QoL domain (P<0.05). Additionally, individuals who pursued higher education in their later years exhibited a positive overall quality of life. Furthermore, higher water intake and longer sleep durations showed a positive linear correlation with overall QoL. Regression analysis further indicated that education, comorbidities like thyroid dysfunction, cardiac disease, poor eye sight and respiratory diseases were predictors of quality of life in elderly staying in old homes. Conclusion: The well-being of elderly individuals is influenced by factors such as social interactions, support networks, healthy dietary habits, and overall health status. However, it is regrettable to note that these provisions are currently lacking in context of Bangladesh. Enhancing the quality of life for the elderly involves prioritizing improvements in their financial well-being, reinforcing traditional family ties, and promoting better nutrition along with physical health. Additionally, the government should take measures to alleviate the challenges faced by senior citizens by introducing old age security schemes, health insurance, and allocating appropriate resources. Keywords: Elderly, Old home, QoL, Bangladesh