Quality of life in older people

Abstract

Abstract There is no consensus definition of quality of life (QoL), which is a multifaceted and highly individual condition. QoL is affected in a complex way by one’s physical and psychological state, personal beliefs, social relationships, and their relationship to environment. There are numerous definitions and ways to measure QoL. “Quality of life” is often taken as a synonym for health-related quality of life (HRQoL), which, however, captures only one segment of QoL. In older people, good QoL is closely related to the idea of “successful aging.” Although generally major components of good QoL are quite similar in old age to those of younger people, there are important differences, also between various subgroups of older people (age, cognition, frailty, place of living). However, preserved ability to enjoy life seems to be important irrespective of age. In aging societies, public policies related to health and social care, community and environment, measurement of QoL are an increasingly important endpoint and outcome.