Factors Affecting Quality of Life of Older People in Taungu Township, Bago Region, Myanmar

Abstract

Background: During the last three decades, Myanmar has faced a steadily growing population of older people as a result of sustained declines in mortality and fertility.  Quality of life (QoL) is an important issue among older people as it reflects their health status and well-being. This study aimed to investigate the QoL of older people and analyze factors associated with QoL of older people in Taungu Township, Bago Region, Myanmar.

Methods: The study is based on a cross-sectional study among 233 older people aged 60 years or above living in the Taungu Township. The data were collected through structured questionnaire using face-to-face interview, during March to April 2011. Questions on QoL were from the standard World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and bi-variate analysis (χ² test) were employed.

Results: The study revealed that 72.1% of older people had an average QoL (Mean - SD) to (Mean + SD), 14.2% and 13.7% had high and low QoL. QoL is significantly and positively (directly) associated (p<0.05) with older people’s individual income.  It is implied that appropriate implementation should increase its coverage both in terms of area and less opportunity for older persons.

Conclusion: Government should expand older people’s self-help group to improve livelihoods by creating job opportunities and income generate in all States and Regions. It is also suggested the WHOQOL-BREF, the standard questionnaires needs to be validated according to context of Myanmar cultures and norms, including the meaning of “quality of life”.