Quality of life trajectories among frail older adults in Korea: the role of social network factors

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the trajectories of quality of life among frail older adults in Korea and their association with social network factors. METHODS: Data were drawn from waves 1 (2006) to 6 (2016) of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing. The sample comprised 3,177 adults aged 65 and older at baseline. Multiple-group latent growth models compared frail and non-frail groups and investigated whether social network factors predicted the intercepts and slopes. RESULTS: Frail older adults reported significantly lower initial quality of life than non-frail adults. Quality of life declined in the full sample and among non-frail adults but increased in the frail group. Participation in social activities was positively related to the intercept of quality of life. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the nuanced dynamics of quality of life among frail older adults in Korea and underscore the importance of promoting social participation in this population.