Path Analysis of Factors Influencing Health-Related Quality of Life for Community-Dwelling Vulnerable Older Adults with Chronic Diseases in Korea

Purpose: This study aims to construct and verify a path model for the factors affecting health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases in Korea. Methods: The sample included 195 community-dwelling vulnerable adults aged 65 years and above with chronic diseases in Korea. Structured questionnaires were collected from April to June 2022. Data were analyzed using SPSS 28.0 and AMOS 28.0 programs. Results: The hypothesized path model significantly explained HRQoL in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases, with a high explanatory power (48.0%). Self-rated health (SRH) and self-efficacy for managing chronic disease (SEMCD) had a significant direct effect on HRQoL. The number of diseases, depressive symptoms, social support, and digital literacy indirectly affected HRQoL. Conclusion: To improve HRQoL in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases, integrated community health-management programs should focus on enhancing SEMCD and SRH, while incorporating depression screening, social support, and digital literacy education.