Quality of Life (QOL) and Its Associated Factors among Rungus Elderly Population in the Rural Areas of Kudat, Sabah

Abstract

Aging population will be an inevitable phenomenon around the globe. This study aimed to assess the quality of life and its associated factors among the elderly population in rural areas of Kudat, Sabah. A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly aged 60 and above living in Tambuluran Area of Kudat. Quality of life was assessed using WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. Socio-demographic data of the elderly, perceived morbidities and utilization of health services were collected. Independent sample t-test was used for data analysis. A total of 165 respondents participated in this study with a mean age of 71.42±6.50. The mean WHOQOL-BREF score was 65.20 ±11.49. Mean scores for physical and psychological domains were lower than average. Age, marital status, educational level and perceived morbidity were associated significantly with QOL. In conclusion, QOL was generally average among elderly in rural areas of Kudat. Therefore, interventions should place emphasis on physical and psychological aspects of life among these aged population.