Factors Affecting Quality of Life of the Korean Aged Stroke Patients

Abstract

Among the most prevalent disabling diseases of old age, stroke is the leading chronic condition in Korea. The physical and psychosocial complications of a stroke can result in serious limitations on all aspects of one's life that affect overall quality of life. This study examines the relative importance of and interactions among factors which affect the quality of life of 119 stroke patients aged sixty-five and older in Korea. The model uses family support, personality (specifically hardiness), economic status, and physical functioning as independent variables, and quality of life as a dependent variable. The results of this study suggest that physical functioning and physical care by the family are important factors influencing quality of life of the aged stroke patients. Hardy personality is negatively associated with financial support and physical care by the family. These findings have several implications for policy development, clinical practice, and future research in this area.