Individual-Level Active Aging Index and Quality of Life of Older People: A Population-Based Survey in Tehran

Iran is one of the fastest ageing countries in the world. The model of Active Ageing (AA) could be a strategy contributing in addressing the problem of population ageing in Iran. This study measured the status of AA in Iran and examined its associations with the health-related quality of life of older people.

A quantitative cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 623 people aged 55 + years resident in Tehran was conducted. In total, 590 people responded. The AA was measured using the Active Ageing Index (AAI) questionnaire and the health-related quality of life was measured using SF-36 questionnaire. Associations between the domains and the overall AAI scores with the quality of life were examined by MANCOVA analysis in four models using the STATA software.

The score of overall AAI was calculated at 26.8 (men 33.9 vs. women 20.6) out of 100. We found a stronger association of the AAI with the physical component than the mental component of the SF-36. Generally the 1^st (employment) and the 2^nd (participation in society) domains of the AAI showed little or no association with SF-36, but there was an association between the 3^rd domain (enabling environment for active ageing) and the SF-36 and a particularly strong associations with the 4^th domain (independent, healthy and secure living capacity).

Iranian elderly, particularly women, are experiencing relatively inactive life, which negatively influence on their health-related quality of life. To improve the AAI status in Iran, some aspects including "enabling environment" and "independent, healthy and secure living capacity" need special attention.