Quality of life: an integrative definition

The study of quality of life is presented in context, and the main definitions are pointed out. A new and more comprehensive definition is proposed: "Quality of life is a state of general satisfaction, that comes from the realization of the potentitalities of the person. Quality of life includes both subjective and objective aspects. It is a subjective feeling of physical, psychological and social welfare. As subjective aspects it includes intimacy, emotional expression, perceived safety, personal productivity, and perceived health. As objective aspects it includes material welfare, armonious relations with the physical and social environment and with the community, and health objectively perceived".