OBJECTIVE: The aging global population has coincided with increased prevalence of chronic diseases, impacting quality of life (QOL) and life satisfaction among older people. Understanding related factors for QOL and life satisfaction is essential to develop effective interventions. This study examined the relationships between health locus of control and daily activities with QOL and life satisfaction in older people with chronic disease. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used the following self-administered questionnaires: WHOQOL26, Satisfaction with Life scale, and Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scales. Data on daily activities (outings and communication with friends) and socioeconomic status were also collected. A total of 600 questionnaires were distributed to outpatients aged ≥65 years with chronic diseases; 357 questionnaires were returned (response rate: 59.5%). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess related factors for two outcomes (QOL and life satisfaction). RESULTS: After applying the eligibility criteria, 267 participants were included in the analysis. Perceptions that personal health outcomes were controlled by external factors- either by powerful others (such as doctors or nurses) or by chance-positively influenced life satisfaction but did not influence QOL score. Frequent outings were associated with higher QOL, while communication with friends was associated with increased life satisfaction. Insufficient household finances were related to both outcomes, but monthly income influenced only life satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Daily activities and perceived financial strain were associated with both quality of life and life satisfaction among older people with chronic diseases, whereas health locus of control showed differential associations with these outcomes.
Saiki et al. (Tue,) studied this question.