Rural seniors' perceptions of quality of life

摘要

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of quality of life (QoL) among seniors in a rural region in the United States. Two men and two women aged 65 and older participated in qualitative interviews to reflect on their perceptions of their QoL. Data were analyzed using a phenomenological method. Six themes emerged including autonomy, altruism, engagement in occupation, responsibility for own life, sense of community, and changes in relationships. The seniors' values and attitudes may influence health care workers and community leaders in developing programs aimed at maintaining good QoL for seniors in rural areas. Copyright (c) by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.