Overview of Physical and Psychological Health Conditions and Their Impact on the Quality of Life of Elderly People in the Community

Thorik Abdullah; Margaretha Sihobing

doi:10.37899/mjdh.v3i1.326

Authors

Thorik Abdullah Bachelor of Nursing Science, Institut Kesehatan Suaka Insan
Margaretha Sihobing Bachelor of Nursing Science, Institut Kesehatan Suaka Insan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37899/mjdh.v3i1.326

Keywords:

Elderly Health, Physical Health, Psychological Health, Quality Of Life

Abstract

Population ageing presents increasing challenges for maintaining health and quality of life among elderly people living in the community. This study aims to provide an overview of physical and psychological health conditions and to examine their impact on the quality of life of community-dwelling elderly individuals. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed involving elderly participants aged 60 years and above. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews using validated instruments to assess physical health conditions, psychological health status, and quality of life across multiple domains. The results indicate a high prevalence of chronic physical conditions, particularly hypertension and musculoskeletal disorders, alongside a substantial proportion of elderly individuals experiencing psychological distress, especially depressive symptoms. Overall quality of life was found to be moderate, with lower scores observed in physical and psychological domains compared to social and environmental domains. Both physical and psychological health conditions were significantly associated with quality of life; however, psychological health emerged as a stronger and more consistent predictor. Elderly individuals with better psychological well-being reported higher quality of life even in the presence of chronic physical illness, indicating an interaction between physical and psychological health. These findings highlight the importance of adopting integrated, community-based health approaches that address both physical and mental health needs. The study contributes to the growing evidence supporting holistic strategies to promote healthy ageing and improve the quality of life of elderly populations in community settingsPopulation ageing presents increasing challenges for maintaining health and quality of life among elderly people living in the community. This study aims to provide an overview of physical and psychological health conditions and to examine their impact on the quality of life of community-dwelling elderly individuals. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed involving elderly participants aged 60 years and above. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews using validated instruments to assess physical health conditions, psychological health status, and quality of life across multiple domains. The results indicate a high prevalence of chronic physical conditions, particularly hypertension and musculoskeletal disorders, alongside a substantial proportion of elderly individuals experiencing psychological distress, especially depressive symptoms. Overall quality of life was found to be moderate, with lower scores observed in physical and psychological domains compared to social and environmental domains. Both physical and psychological health conditions were significantly associated with quality of life; however, psychological health emerged as a stronger and more consistent predictor. Elderly individuals with better psychological well-being reported higher quality of life even in the presence of chronic physical illness, indicating an interaction between physical and psychological health. These findings highlight the importance of adopting integrated, community-based health approaches that address both physical and mental health needs. The study contributes to the growing evidence supporting holistic strategies to promote healthy ageing and improve the quality of life of elderly populations in community settings.

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