Assessment of the quality of life of seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Old age is the last period of human development. Aging is a process in which the human body goes through a number of changes. We consider it necessary to examine the quality of life of seniors in order to be able to ensure the satisfaction of bio-psycho-socio-spiritual needs even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim: The main objective of the survey was to assess the quality of life of seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The survey was conducted using the standardized WHOQoL questionnaire, from which we removed issues related to sexual life and supplemented with demographic issues and issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire was anonymous and the results were evaluated in graphs in Excel. The questionnaire was distributed in retirement homes and social services homes in the Trnava and Trenčín regions. The selection of respondents was intentional and the criteria for inclusion in the survey: age over 65, permanent residence in these facilities and senior oriented in time, place and person. Data collection took place in the months December 2019 — February 2021. Results: Our results from the survey show that the quality of life of seniors despite the COVID-19 pandemics is at a good level. Due to the gender of seniors, according to our results, the quality of life is at a similar level for both men and women. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for love affected men the most, 61.22 % and the need for freedom 43.86 %. Due to the age of seniors, we did not notice a difference in the quality of life. Conclusion: We state that it is important to ensure a quality full life for seniors and to satisfy bio-psycho-socio-spiritual needs despite the COVID-19 pandemic.