Quality of life and life satisfaction -: Perspective of institutionalised elderly women and men in Turkey

This article evaluates the quality of life, life satisfaction, and the relationship between the quality of life and life satisfaction of institutionalised elderly women and men. The study covered a total of 132 elderly, consisting of 64 women and 68 men between the ages of 60-98 years, with sound mental health staying at three care and rehabilitation centres affiliated to National Social Services and Child Protection Institution in Ankara. The quality of life and life satisfaction of the elderly were assessed with scales, including Likert type sentences. Life quality perception of men in terms of physical health is more positive compared to women. Life quality perception of women in terms of physical and social environment is more positive compared to men. In general, women have better life satisfaction than men. A meaningful relationship has been determined between the quality of life and life satisfaction of the elderly. Comprehension of life quality and life satisfaction in old age and determination of the relation between quality of life and life satisfaction will contribute to the development of applicable long-term service programmes required for the improvement of the life conditions of the elderly women and men.