Factors affecting health-related quality of life for older adults living alone in rural areas in Korea: A cross-sectional descriptive study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose: This study aimed to investigate factors influencing the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of older adults aged 65 years and older, living alone in rural areas in Korea. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey with 136 older adults living alone in rural areas from January 26 to February 15, 2024. We collected data through interviews conducted by trained surveyors with each older adult. Data were analyzed using t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and hierarchical logistic-regression analysis with SPSS/WIN version 27.0. Results: Factors influencing the HRQOL of older adults living alone in rural areas were depression (β=-.38, p＜.001), the number of diagnosed diseases (β=-.22, p=.001), and subjective health perception (β=.18, p=.014), with an explanatory power of 57.0%. Conclusion: Managing depression, preventing and treating diseases, and improving subjective health perceptions could enhance the HRQOL of older adults living alone in rural areas.
Authors: Chan Mi Park, Hyeon Ok Kim, Eun Jee Lee
Institution: Jeonbuk National University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413804664