Background: There have been many studies reviewing quality of life (QoL) of older population and found an inverse association between QoL and chronic diseases. However, previous studies have focused only on that of people with specific diseases. In this study, we identified critical quality of life determinants, especially risk for disability, in older adults suffering from chronic diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational design was used. A purposive sample of 115 older patients, diagnosed with co-morbidity was recruited from an outpatient medical center in Southern Taiwan. Results: Results of a stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated that the overall regression model explained 49% of the variance in QoL. After controlling the sociodemographic factors and health status of older patients, the risk for disabilities in social isolation and depression were negatively correlated with QoL. Alzheimer disease-8 (AD-8) had the strongest association with the total QoL score, and it alone explained 27% of the variance. Conclusion: Understanding the importance of determining factors of poor QoL, such as potential cognitive impairment, potential social isolation and depression, inadequate family income, and diminished ability to perform practical and social activities (IADLs) among older adults with chronic diseases is critical for geriatric health care providers. Awareness of these factors can assist providers in identifying people at risk and guide new intervention programs to improve care for these invaluable members of our communities.
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