ABSTRACT
'Quality of life' (QoL) is an amorphous complex concept that researchers have tried to define in macro-societal and micro-individual terms. QoL in the older person can reflect his/her expectations of life at particular time of life. Much of the work on enhancing QoL has focused on achieving successful ageing using approaches that centre on health, social engagement, social functioning and activities, and psychological and lay themes. This chapter explores some commonly recommended QoL instruments. The Older people's quality of life questionnaire is a 32-35-item measure of QoL. The Control, Autonomy, Pleasure and Self-realization is based on a theory of human needs satisfaction and self-actualisation. Items are scored, with a higher total score equating to better QoL, ranging from 0 to 57. The World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment of Older People is a multidimensional generic measure of QoL. The Short-Form 36 Health Status Questionnaire comprises 36 questions that survey health and is used as a proxy for QoL.
