Psychological and Social Factors that Influence Quality of Life in Aging People with and Without Chronic Diseases

Abstract

Objective: Quality of life is influenced by psychological and social factors. Our main objective is to better understand and characterize the impact of social and psychological characteristic in quality of life in aging population with and without diabetes and other chronic disease. Method: The data was collected at the national level. The sample is composed of 1,330 people 62.2% of which were female, with ages ranging between 55 and 75 years old. 48.2% of the sample mention having a chronic condition, 34.4% of which had diabetes. Three regression models were created in order to understand the quality of life in aging population with and without chronic illness in a biopsychosocial perspective. Results: Results showed that quality of life in aging population is influenced by psychological factors (purpose of life and stress management skills) and by social factors (social support satisfaction and relationships with supervisor at work). Having a chronic disease, such as diabetes, can also influence quality of life. Conclusions: Our study allowed us to conclude that quality of life is influenced by physical health, psychological health and social health. The psychological factors presented a more systematic and strong influence in quality of life in population with and without chronic disease. Article Information Received date: Aug 21, 2017 Accepted date: Oct 14, 2017 Published date: Oct 23, 2017 *Corresponding author Tania Gaspar, Rua da Junqueira no 188-198 1349-001, Portugal, Tel: + 351 21 3611500 / + 351 96 285 2290; Email: tania.gaspar.barra@gmail.com Distributed under Creative Commons CC-BY 4.0