Functional status, social support and quality of life for successful aging

Page: 464-470

Ritu Sharma (Department of Psychology, Aditi Mahavidyalya, University of Delhi, Delhi)

Older people 65+ constitute 4.8% of total population being characterized by frailty, socio-economic dependence, widowhood, abuse, poverty, loneliness, depression and chronic ailments. Changing family structure has become challenge. This study is to explore relation among functional status, psychological health and social support to improve QOL of community dwelling older people. In this cross-sectional study, random sample of 1016 senior citizens of all socio-economic status were collected from Delhi (India). The quantitative assessment was done on indicators of functional status, physical activity, stress and quality of life by using scales of ADL, IADL, MMSI, GDS, QOL, LTA, and social support. Older people (80+) were significantly different on ADL, IADL, QOL GDS at p<0.05. Living arrangement, education and SES affect IADL and QOL, and LTA (p<0.05). Regression analysis showed significant relation of IADL with age, education, depression, economic independence, social activities, social support and depression. Modifiable variables such as age, education, living arrangement, marital status and socio-economic status affect the functional status. Deterioration in health with age and dependence arise the need for long term care service in community. Independence in IADL, LTA and social support can improve the quality of life of senior citizens. Maintenance of good health can help in dealing with abuse and improve QOL. In the absence of family support of caregiver burnout, a community based long term care system can be a solution to support community dwelling older people also deal with problems of caregiver stress, ADL, IADL.