Predictors of quality of life of the rural older adults in Northern Thailand

Purpose The purpose of this paper to explore socio-demographic factors related to the quality of life (QoL) among older adults in the rural area of Thailand. Design/methodology/approach This cross-sectional study examined socio-demographic factor that may predict the QoL among 470 older adults who lived in a rural area of Northern Thailand. The study questionnaire consisted of four parts, including socio-demographic data, perceptions of the health status, family relationship and QoL (WHOQOL-OLD). Spearman’s ρ or Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficients were determine the factors associated with the QoL. Stepwise multiple regressions were carried out to describe predictors of the QoL. Findings Majority of the participants (71 percent) were between 60 and 79 years old. Three-quarters of participants had primary school educational level. Most (74 percent) were married and no longer work (72 percent). Most (87 percent) had a moderate level of the QoL in all six domains. Six predictors of QoL include age, gender, education, current employment, health status perception and family relationship. These factors could significantly predict the QoL of the older adults by 30 percent. Originality/value Public health officers should collaborate with community partners and relevant stakeholders to increase the QoL of older adults in the rural area through activities which promote health status perception and family relationship.