Dependence Level and Quality of Life of Older Adults Living in Nursing Home

Abstract

Purpose: The older adults, in particular, care more about quality of life than longevity. Therefore, initiatives for the elderly should focus on increasing the quality of their life. Many factors affect the older adults’ quality of life, but their dependence level is the most important. This study examined the effect of dependence level on quality of life for older adults living in nursing homes. Methods: The sample of this descriptive, cross-sectional study included 109 older adults who lived in nursing homes. Data were collected using the Older Adult Information Form, World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Brief Form Turkish Version and Barthel Index. Results: The mean age of the older adults were 73.92 ± 9.36 years and the mean duration of their stay in a nursing home was 3.61 ± 3.22 years. Their Barthel Index score was 89.35 ± 21.39 and quality of life score was 88.33 ± 16.62. Discussion: The older adults in nursing homes had a medium level of independence. Being female and having low levels of education, chronic diseases, and hearing loss negatively affected independence levels and quality of life. Relevant initiatives that increase the functional independence of older adults should be supported because these practices will also increase their quality of life.