Health-Related Quality of Life in Old Age. A Study among 76-Year-Old Swedish Urban Citizens

Abstract

Health-related quality of life was measured in terms of energy, pain, emotions, sleep, social isolation and mobility with the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Five hundred and sixty-five ambulant 76-year-olds in a Swedish city participated and the results were analysed in relation to health and socio-demographic factors. The majority of the subjects lived independently and felt healthy, despite the fact that many had some diagnosed disease or disorder. In general, the sample reported a satisfactory quality of life. Impaired quality of life was correlated to observed and perceived illness, institutionalization, widowhood, loneliness and financial discontent. Women reported more pain, emotional, sleep and mobility problems than men. Mobility problems had the most negative impact on daily activities, whereas sleeping problems had none.