Quality of Life in Geriatric Populations within Long-term Care Facilities: Prospective Observational Study Addressing...

Quality of life (QOL) among elderly individuals in long-term care (LTC) facilities encompasses several dimensions, ranging from social interaction, health status, and support systems. With the aging of populations across the globe, the identification of factors that influence QOL among elderly residents in LTC facilities provides a key factor to enhance care delivery and better well-being.

The study examines the QOL of elderly people in LTC facilities in Chennai, India, and identifies factors that affect their well-being in physical, psychological, as well as social arenas. Assessment could be beneficial in tailoring care.

A 2-year cross-sectional study among 302 elderly people with an age group of >60 years residing in selected LTC facilities in the city of Chennai was evaluated using a structured questionnaire eliciting sociodemographic characteristics and health status, for which QOL was determined on the World Health Organization QOL-BREF scale. The data were collected, and results of the study were analyzed through SPSS with the aid of descriptive and inferential statistics to establish significant influences on QOL.

Physical and psychological domains of QOL were notably low among residents experiencing health problems, social isolation, and lack of personalized care. Those with high QOL scores have received consistent social support and retained autonomy. The findings are consistent with earlier research stating that social engagement and enough hours of care are important for improvement in the QOL in LTC.

The research also strengthens support systems, formal programs of organized social activities, and adequate personnel in LTC facilities, among other things, to enhance the QOL in the elderly. All these should be enhanced to provide a more supportive and fulfilling environment.