Social Capital, Socioeconomic Status, and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Adults in Bogota (Colombia)

Objective: The main goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between levels of cognitive social capital and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Methods: A multilevel, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2007 in Bogota Colombia. A total of 1,907 older adults completed the Spanish version of the Short Form of Health Survey (SF-8) to assess HRQOL. Cognitive dimension of social capital was assessed. Hierarchical linear regressions were conducted to determine the associations between social capital variables and HRQOL. Results: Only 20% to 25% of the population reported trust in others and shared values. A total of 93% percent reported that people in their neighborhood would try to take advantage of them if given a chance. Higher social capital indicators were positively associated with the mental and physical dimensions of HRQOL. Discussion: Results from this study support evidence on the disintegration of the Colombian society, which may be influenced by high levels of social inequality.