Quality of life in elderly age: areas of concern

Abstract

The quality of life in elderly age has special features, depending primarily on the state of health, assessment of the spent life, internal standards, support and ability to operate effectively in changing circumstances. In later ages estimation of quality of life affects the mechanisms of pathogenesis of somatic and mental disorders. Up to date there is no agreement among researchers on criteria of identification and assessment of the quality of life in later ages. This article describes the modern understanding of quality of life and its components. It highlights the issues impeding the improvement of quality of life. The article lists the methods for the evaluation of quality of life in later ages. It also presents the analysis of the main factors affecting the quality of life in elderly patients.