Lebensqualität und chronische Erkrankung im Alter - Vergleich der Lebensqualität in verschiedenen Subgruppen der Altenbevölkerung mit dem WHOQOL-BREF und dem WHOQOL-OLD

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyse the effects of chronic disease or disease-related burden on the quality of life (QoL) of elderly people (60+). We want to determinate and compare important indicators of QoL and additionally judge the influence of disease-specific factors. Methods: A representative survey of the German population 60+ and data of the four subgroups (patients with Diabetes mellitus, coronary diseases (CHD), depressive disorders and elderly caretakers) were conducted in Germany. Subjective QoL was assessed with the WHOQOL-BREF and the WHOQOL-OLD. Multivariate linear regression models were used for each of the domains and facets of the questionnaires, utilizing as independent variables socio-demographic characteristics, depressive symptoms, subjective morbidity, level of functioning and dichotomous belonging to the subgroups (diabetes, coronary heart disease, depression and caregiver). Results: The severity of depressive symptoms showed the largest negative effect of all independent variables in every domain of the questionnaires (p < = [less-than or equal to] 0.001). Under control of all independent variables, diabetes and depressive disorder showed additionally negative influences on QoL more in the WHOQOL-BREF than in the WHOQOL-OLD. Negative effects of CHD were only significant for social participation. Psychological and social QoL, autonomy, social participation and both total scores were assessed worse in caretakers than in the general population. Conclusions: In older participants with chronic diseases and disease-related stress, depressive symptoms were the most important determinant of QoL and much more important than the effect of the chronic diseases or the disease-related stress itself. Consequently, therapy of chronic diseases should account more for psychological well-being of patients.