[Determinants of quality of life and health status in outpatients]

Quality of daily life is of growing interest in medicine. In an outpatient setting in internal medicine the key factors influencing quality of life have been studied. Non-somatic disorders, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and dizziness were strong negative factors. Despite increased morbidity in the elderly, quality of life was still preserved. Since only the patient can judge his own quality of life, his needs should receive increasing consideration in everyday practice.