Characteristics of the quality of life in resident of a geriatric institution

Abstract

Human life expectancy has increased considerably in recent decades.This demographic and social phenomenon requires greater attention to the way older adults live, as well as their perception of their lives. Quality of life levels were analyzed in an institutionalized population by identifying the perception these people have of it. A descriptive-explanatory, non-experimental study was carried out with a cross-cutting design and quantitative methodology with 112 residents of the institution “Los Tres Árboles” , in Zamora province. Their general and clinical data were collected by individual interview. Their general and clinical data were collected by individual interview. The FUMAT scale was applied, and the focus group technique to deepen the determinants of quality of life perceived by them and their relationship with the vital situation of staying in a geriatric institution. The levels of quality of life found were high, with the most relevant dimension being, that at physical wellbeing, linked to functional independence, self-determination and social inclusion. These people attribute an improvement in their physical well-being to the fact that they are living in a residence, where attention to physical activity is perceived by them as fundamental. Also important were the area of rights, self-determination, social inclusion and personal development. Physical well-being, vitality and independence are, in the participants’ view, the main benefits derived from the practice of physical exercises, in particular the revitalization exercises, as well as the physiotherapy in general they receive. These results should serve to guide health partner work with a view to not only meeting the goal of adding years to life but also, in a special way, to add life to the years.