Factors affecting the quality of life of dependent elderly in Mueang Phichit District, Phichit Province

Abstract

The number of dependent elderly has continuously increased, resulting in limitations in daily living. This study aimed to identify factors affecting the quality of life among dependent elderly in Mueang Phichit District, Phichit Province. This cross-sectional explanatory study was conducted between June and July 2025. The sample consisted of 427 dependent elderly, selected using multistage random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires with a content validity index of 0.76 and a reliability coefficient of 0.966. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis. The results revealed that the quality of life of the dependent elderly, social support, and environmental perception factors were at a moderate level. Personal factors, including heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and unemployment, were significantly associated with quality of life. Social support factors, including emotional support (r = 0.485), tangible support (r = 0.443), and informational support (r = 0.363), showed moderate positive correlations with quality of life. Environmental perception factors, including access to public services (r = 0.531), satisfaction with the community environment (r = 0.401), and type of residence (r = 0.324), also demonstrated moderate positive correlations with quality of life. Personal factors, social support, and environmental perception jointly explained 32.5% of the variance in quality of life (adjusted R² = 0.325). The strongest predictor was access to public services (β = 0.291), followed by overall social support (β = 0.283). Therefore, relevant agencies should promote comprehensive access to healthcare and public services for the dependent elderly.