Predictors of health related-quality of life among elderly with disabilities

Abstract

Aim There have been no previous studies of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among adults aged 65 years and older with disabilities in Serbia. The aim of study was to identify predictors of HRQOL in the context of sociodemographic characteristics, disability aetiology, comorbid diseases, indices of comorbidities, realization of social rights, and domestic violence. Methods The cross-sectional study involved 275 consecutive elderly outpatients with disabilities. They were recruited by general practitioners at Primary Health Centers in Belgrade, Serbia, from March to May 2015. Data were acquired through face-to-face interviews and general practitioners' charts, while the generic 36-item Short Form Health Survey was used to assess HRQOL. In statistical analysis, Student's t-test, Z-test, Spearman's correlation test, and both univariate and multivariate linear regression were performed. Results Multivariate analysis revealed that a higher Functional Comorbidity Index (beta = -0.194, P lt 0.01) and not asking for realization of right to assistance and care financial benefits (beta = -0.142, P lt 0.05) were predictors of a lower scores Mental Composite Score (F = 9.262; P lt 0.001). Not asking for realization of right to assistance and care financial benefits (beta = -0.187, P lt 0.01), congestive heart failure (beta = -0.123, P lt 0.05), and stroke (beta = -0.120, P lt 0.05) were predictors of a lower Physical Composite Score (F = 7.169, P lt 0.001). Conclusions This study provides valuable data for better understanding the underlying factors associated with the HRQOL of elderly persons with disabilities, and currently, these are the only available data of their kind in Serbia. National authorities could identify predictors of HRQOL as a basic starting point for improving the social welfare and health-care systems. Better prevention and management of clinical factors, increased access to social services, and enhanced delivery of social services will improve the ageing process and HRQOL of this vulnerable population.