Morbidity status and quality of life among elderly population in rural Bengaluru

BACKGROUND: Elderly people may suffer from the multiple health disorders and are vulnerable for many physical and mental disturbances. Quality of life (QOL) in elderly population can be affected by many health factors. AIMS: The aim of the study is to identify the morbidity pattern and to assess the QOL among elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample size calculated was rounded off to 230. Elderly participants aged above 60 years were interviewed after taking informed written consent. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess sociodemographic profile morbidity pattern and to assess QOL, the questionnaire is called WHO Quality of Life -Old (WHO QOL-OLD) questionnaire was used for the data collection. Settings and Design: This was a community-based cross-sectional study done in rural health training center of MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital, Hoskote, Bengaluru. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics such as percentage were used, and independent t-test was used to compare the between various groups. RESULTS: Among 231 study participants, 122 (52.8%) belonged to 60-65 years' age group, 126 (54.5%) were female, 130 (56.3%) were illiterate, and 119 (51.6%) were completely dependent financially on family members. The mean score and transformed facet score (TFS) of facet VI (Intimacy) were the highest, and the lowest mean score and lowest TFS were observed in facet IV (social participation). CONCLUSIONS: Among elderly, QOL is hampered because of senescence, chronic diseases, social displacement, and financial or physical dependence. Promotion of QOL among elderly at primary health-care level needs to be planned by the policy makers.