Identifying variables in relation to health-related quality of life among community-dwelling older women: Knowledgebase for health-promoting activities

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to explore health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and associated variables among all community-dwelling older women (≥65 years) ( n = 2724) on Åland, a Finnish self-governing island community. A total of 1023 women participated (mean age 72.9 ± 6.8 years). Absence of depression, absence of diagnosed disease(s), having the opportunity to engage in meaningful leisure activities, and never or seldom feeling lonely explained, together with socio-economic control variables (i.e. age, education and economic situation), 34.4% of the variation in physical health. Absence of depression, strong inner strength, and never or seldom feeling lonely explained, together with socio-economic control variables, 27.7% of the variation in mental health. HRQoL was rated as relatively good, although special attention should be paid to women aged 80+years. To promote HRQoL, interventions aimed at preventing, detecting and treating depression should be prioritised. In addition, interventions aimed at reducing feelings of loneliness are also recommended in order to enhance overall HRQoL.