A model for enhancing the quality of life of elderly individuals with non-communicable diseases in Phan Thong district, Chonburi province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were: 1) to examine factors influencing the quality of life (QOL) among elderly individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Phan Thong District, Chonburi Province, and 2) to develop a QOL model for elderly with NCDs.  The mixed-method of study  was employed. A sample consisted of 377 elderly with NCDs, 23 public health personnel and 11 elderly participants, selected by purposive sampling. Research instrument included questionnaire assessing the QOL, attitudes, and personal factors. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that personal factors such as age, financial status, and the presence of a primary caregiver positively associated with QOL among the elderly. Conversely, diabetes and hypertension significantly associated with poorer QOL Positive attitude factors such as physical (AOR = 2.88), economic (AOR = 2.67), social relationships (AOR = 2.10), psychological (AOR = 2.78), and environmental domains (AOR = 4.65) were significantly associated with enhanced QOL. The improvement of QOL among elderly with NCDs should be supported by family members, community-based networks, and governmental policies.