The Use of Information Systems (GIS) to Monitor the Quality of Life of Older People in Greece

Abstract

The aim of the study is to present the usefulness of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the socio-economic indicators that affect the health level of the elderly. The study uses a specially designed questionnaire to capture data on socio-economic indicators of the elderly in Grece. The results of the survey are plotted in the corresponding geographical locations on the maps, using GIS in a way that provides the person concerned a full picture of the geographical distribution of socio-economic indicators that affect the health level of the elderly. The study finds that there is an obvious proportional relationship between Sense of Quality of Life with healthier characteristics, a less proportional relationship with financial characteristics and even a less proportional relationship with the age and the education level of the respondents. The study has implications for health sector professionals and policy makers in Greece.