Association between self-esteem and health-related quality of life among elderly rural community, Northern Thailand

Abstract

This study was aimed to investigate the association between self-esteem and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among elderly rural community, Northern Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 299 elderly persons in the community in Phayao Province, Northern Thailand. The data were collected using the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF—Thai (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaires and the Rosenberg self-esteem questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression analysis, and correlation. The results showed that the mean age of the sample was 68.7 ± 7.7 years (mean ± SD). The study found that HRQOL in the elderly was at a moderate level (61.5%), while 58.5% of the participants exhibited low levels of self-esteem. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that an increase self-esteem was statistically significant with an increase HRQOL after adjustment for age, gender, monthly income, marital status, educational level, occupation, and congenital disease (B = 1.654, SE = 0.150, p < 0.001). In conclusion, the study findings suggest a strong correlation between self-esteem and HRQOL among the elderly population. Having a positive self-perception and feelings of self-value can improve an individual’s overall health and well-being during their later years.