Determinants in the quality of life of the elderly: community and nursing home perspective

Abstract

The present study focused on the relationship between family functioning and quality of life of the elderly in a city of Salta. With the participation of 106 elderly people, various dimensions were evaluated using tests such as FF-SIL, the Katz scale and the Lawton Index. The results highlighted that a high percentage (75.5%) of the elderly received support from their families, which underlined the importance of family support in their quality of life. In addition, patterns of toxic habits and positive interpersonal relationships were observed in the population studied. Most of the elderly lived in adequate conditions, which highlighted the importance of an adequate living environment and health management in old age to maintain a good quality of life. This scientific study evidenced that family support, satisfactory interpersonal relationships and functional independence are key factors for a satisfactory life in old age. These findings emphasize the need for health promotion strategies in the elderly population.