Health Related Quality of Life and Social Support: A Rural Mobilizing for Action Through Planning and Partnerships Feasibility Study

Abstract

Background: Rural communities face geographical health inequities that can reduce quality of life. However, rural communities are thought to have close social networks and higher levels of support. The purpose of the current study was to determine the feasibility of utilizing a social support measure within the Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP) quality of life assessment process. Methods: Study participants (n=242, mean age: 46.5) completed a demographic questionnaire, Sense of Social Support Scale, and selected questions from the World Health Organization Quality of Life survey. Results: Findings indicate that perceived social support predicts health related quality of life (p=<.001). In terms of social support, keeping in touch with friends and solicitation of help from friends were negatively associated with quality of life (p=.001; p=.018) respectively. The relationship between income level and health related quality of life was statistically significant (p=.018). Implications and Conclusions: Findings indicate that the measurement of social support and health related quality of life can be beneficial within a general rural community sample. Incorporation of social support measures within community based quality of life assessments can assist public health professionals with the development of appropriate programs and services.