Is social participation associated with quality of life of older adults with physical disabilities?

PURPOSE: To explore the relationships between subjective quality of life and social participation of older adults with physical disabilities. METHOD: A cross-sectional design was used with a convenience sample of 46 people aged 60 to 90 living in the community. Subjective quality of life was estimated with the Quality of Life Index and social participation with the Assessment of Life Habits. RESULTS: Only a weak relationship was found between total scores of quality of life and social participation. Interpersonal relationships, responsibilities, fitness and recreation were the categories of social participation most associated with quality of life. Social roles were more associated with quality of life than daily activities. Finally, satisfaction with the accomplishment of life habits was also more associated with quality of life than the performance itself. CONCLUSIONS: The importance of social participation in regard to the quality of life of older persons with physical disabilities living in the community is partially supported by these findings. Other studies are needed to clarify how social participation influences quality of life in this population.