The influence of context on the conceptualization, measurement, and application of the concept of quality of life

Abstract

The influence of context on the conceptualization, measurement, and application of the quality of life concept was acknowledged in the principles contained within the original Quality of Life Consensus Document published in 2002 and validated in 2004. Since that time, there has been a substantial increase in our understanding of both the QOL construct and the multidimensional properties of context. The purpose of this article is to report on a multi-step process conducted in 2019 by a group of international quality of life experts to review, critique, and update where necessary the QOL principles that were originally developed in 2002. Updated principles for conceptualization, measurement, and application are provided. An understanding of the role of context on the QOL concept allows for measurement guidelines to accompany the measurement principles, an understanding of the application conditions associated with a person- or family-centered approach to QOL, and implementing guidelines regarding both the development of QOL-related policies and practices and their monitoring and evaluation.