Predictors Of Quality Of Life Research Articles

Can Time Heal Anything? Exposure to Traumatic Events, Autobiographical Memory, and the Quality of Life Among Older Adults: The Role of Time Perspective

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between autobiographical memory, exposure to traumatic events, and quality of life, in a group of elderly people. Method: The study was conducted using a sample of 362 participants ( Mage = 68.35, SD = 6.67; 65.5% women and 34.5% men). They completed the questionnaires to measure quality of life, exposure to traumatic events, autobiographical memory, and time perspective. Results: Direct exposure to major traumatic life events negatively predicted quality of life, while autobiographical memory was not a predictor for quality of life. Time perspective mediated the relationship between exposure to traumatic life events, autobiographical memory, and quality of life. Discussion: How people manage their lives after exposure to traumatic events should be of particular interest to society as a whole and it is necessary to take into account various factors related to quality of life, especially in the case of elderly people.

QOL-16. POSTOPERATIVE MOTOR FUNCTION AND PROCESSING SPEED PREDICT QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH GLIOBLASTOMA AT CHRONIC-PHASE

Abstract The quality of life (QOL) in patients with glioblastoma (GBM) should be paid attention. The aim of this study is to identify brain functions that influence the QOL of patients with GBM by objectively assessing neurocognitive functions. Data from 40 patients with newly diagnosed GBMs were analyzed. All patients completed the assessment of various neurological and neurocognitive functions and QOL at 6 months postoperatively. QOL was assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). In the SF-36, the physical, mental, and role and social component summary (PCS, MCS, and RCS, respectively) scores were calculated. Multiple logistic regression analyses and chi-square tests were used to evaluate the association between SF-36 scores and brain functions. The MCS was maintained, whereas the PCS and RCS scores were significantly lower in patients with GBMs than in healthy controls (p=0.0081 and p<0.0001, respectively). Among a variety of brain functions, motor function and processing speed were significantly correlated with PCS and RCS scores, respectively (p=0.0048 and p=0.030, respectively). Patients whose PCS or RCS remained stable had a higher probability of motor function or processing speed preservation than those whose RCS or PCS decreased (p=0.0026). Taken together, motor function and processing speed may be predictors of QOL in patients with GBMs.

Psychological well-being and its influence on elderly life

Abstract Background: This study examines the influence of psychological well-being (PWB) on the quality of life (QOL) among elderly individuals, considering demographic factors such as gender and urban vs. rural residence. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 255 individuals aged 65–75 years from urban and rural areas of New Delhi, India. PWB was assessed using the Psychological Well-Being Scale, and QOL was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis. Results: A significant positive relationship was found between PWB and QOL, with PWB accounting for 14% of the variance in QOL (P < 0.001). Urban males showed the highest PWB and QOL scores, whereas rural females exhibited the lowest scores. Conclusions: PWB is an important predictor of QOL among older adults. Addressing demographic disparities in well-being is crucial for designing effective interventions tailored to diverse populations.

The Association between Social Engagement, Social Network, Social Embeddedness and Quality of Life among University Students

Quality of life (QoL) among university students is a critical concern that impacts not only their academic success but also their overall well-being and prospects. Social relationships are critical for university students' quality of life. Positive social interactions and a supportive network can enhance students' sense of belonging and emotional well-being. However, many students struggle with loneliness and social isolation on campus. This study aims to investigate the association between civic engagement (social engagement, social network, and social embeddedness) and the QoL among university students. We conducted this cross-sectional study among 179 university students on the UiTM Puncak Alam campus via an online survey. We adapted the questionnaire from previous studies and used SPSS version 29 to analyze the data. The Pearson correlation test revealed a link between all the independent variables and the dependent variable, demonstrating both convergent and concurrent validity. The regression analysis showed that social embeddedness was the best predictor of QoL, followed by attitude and behavior. A secure social environment can help one adapt more effectively and provide emotional support, which lowers the risk of depressive symptoms and improves the QoL. In addition, active involvement in social activities helps to increase the sense of belonging to the university community. Identifying oneself as a member of a group of peers, faculty, and staff contributes to the student’s self-concept and higher self-esteem, which is vital in terms of psychological health and QoL.

Predictors and Interdependence of Quality of Life in a Random Sample of Long-Term Young Breast Cancer Survivors and Their Biological Relatives.

Quality of life (QOL) among young breast cancer survivors (YBCS) is often worse than QOL of older breast cancer survivors or age-matched peers without a history of cancer. Families commonly support YBCS, particularly during treatment, but little is known about long-term YBCS and family member QOL. The purpose of this study was to identify demographic, clinical, and psychosocial predictors of physical and mental QOL in YBCS and biological relatives and investigate associations between their QOL (i.e., QOL interdependence). This secondary data analysis includes a random sample of long-term YBCS (≤ 45 years old at diagnosis) and up to two female relatives at baseline (post-treatment) and 18-month follow-up. The sample consists of 189 dyads (YBCS and one relative) and 121 triads (YBCS and two relatives). Actor-partner interdependence models (APIMs) were used to estimate the influence of YBCS's and relatives' demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors on their own QOL (actor effects) and the other persons' QOL (partner effects). For YBCS and relatives, QOL at the baseline was associated with their QOL at 18-months. YBCS's perceived cancer risk was associated with their own and relatives' QOL. Older relatives' physical QOL at baseline was associated with younger relatives' physical QOL at follow-up. Age, race, marital status, years since diagnosis, education, out-of-pocket costs of care, routine sources of care, income, family support, fear of recurrence, anxiety, and depression were also significant predictors of QOL. Findings revealed independent and interdependent effects on QOL. These predictors point to potential targets of support for families. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01612338.

Patient-provider relationships and long COVID: A cross-sectional survey about impact on quality of life

BackgroundIn the United States (U.S.), it is estimated that 17.6 % of adults have experienced Long COVID, a condition where symptoms newly develop and linger after initial COVID-19 infection. Long COVID is associated with significantly reduced quality of life (QoL), and patient-provider relationships have been shown to influence QoL for patients in general. ObjectiveThe objective for this study was to better understand the role of patient-provider relationships in shaping QoL among U.S. adults with Long COVID. MethodsThis study carried out an online survey among U.S. adult with Long COVID (N = 792). ResultsRespondents with at least a bachelor's degree reported higher QoL, and older respondents were more likely to report lower QoL; trust in providers was a significant predictor of higher QoL, while dismissal of Long COVID symptoms was associated with lower QoL (all p < .05). ConclusionsHealthcare providers should be aware of the importance of trust in the relationship with their Long COVID patients and the impact this may have on patients’ QoL. Researchers and policy makers should include an increasing focus on training for providers who treat patients with Long COVID in order to strengthen patient-provider relationships.

Quality of Life Predictors in Patients with Acute Lower Limb Ischemia Quality of Life in Acute Limb Ischemia

ObjectiveWhile existing literature has established factors associated with improved health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia, similar work has not been done in individuals with acute lower limb ischemia (ALLI). This study aims to identify the factors associated with HRQOL in patients presenting with ALLI. MethodsUsing a prospectively collected registry, all patients who received treatment for ALLI between May 2016 and July 2023 at a quaternary medical center were identified and invited to complete two HRQOL questionnaires: the VascuQoL-6 and the EQ-5D-5L. Simple linear regression followed by multivariate analysis using multiple linear regression were used to determine the patient variables independently associated with HRQOL. ResultsOf the 216 eligible patients treated for ALLI during the study period, 47 (20%) of patients with a mean age of 58 ± 10 years completed the HRQOL questionnaires. Questionnaires were completed at a median time of 16.5 months after the episode of ALLI. On multiple linear regression, higher age was associated with higher VascuQoL-6 (p=0.037) and EQ-5D-5L (p=0.041) scores, while hypertension and non-ambulatory status were significant predictors of lower VascuQoL-6 (p=0.006, p=0.013) and EQ-5D-5L (p=0.009, p=0.026) scores. Any ambulation had a significantly higher HRQOL compared to non-ambulatory status, but no significant HRQOL difference was observed between patients with any type of ambulation (unhindered ambulation, ambulation with pain, and ambulation using a prosthesis). ConclusionThis study demonstrates that the ability to ambulate after ALLI, and not amputation per se, is an important predictor of HRQOL. As such, early rehabilitation strategies should be a focus of post-ALLI care. Further exploration of factors that shape HRQOL after ALLI is needed.

A conceptual framework to improve the quality of life in patients with CKD on dialysis in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one non-communicable disease mainly caused by comorbid of diabetes and hypertension, thus compromising quality of life for the patients. Few rigorous Quality of Life frameworks on chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been reported in low-middle income countries including South Africa. Therefore, the study aimed at developing a Conceptual Framework to improve the Quality of Life in Patients with CKD on Dialysis in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa. A Mixed method sequential explanatory design which entails collection of quantitative data, followed by qualitative. A purposive sampling of 316 CKD patients for quantitative was initially selected. For qualitative, 17 healthcare professionals were theoretically sampled until data saturation. A structured questionnaire (WHO HRQOL–BREF) was utilized to collect numerical data for quantitative phase, while focus group discussions provided qualitative insights. The quantitative results indicated low quality of life (QoL) in several dimensions: economic (98 %), psychological (95 %), physical (70 %), and social (55 %). Grounded theory analysis of the qualitative data identified key predictors of QoL as the patients' geographic location, accessibility to haemodialysis centres, their ability to adapt and accept the condition, self-management practices, support from family members and caregivers including the presence of well-trained nursing staff.A comprehensive conceptual framework was developed through identifying contextual factors, interventions and outcomes that is expected to improve the QOL. The study recommends the immediate intervention of the policy makers and health care providers in drafting and implementing policies to improve the QOL in patients with CKD.

Health-Related Quality of Life among Elderly Patients in Urban Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Quality of life (QoL) focuses on a person's ability to live a fulfilling life. It helps in determining successful aging in the elderly population. Because of a scarcity of information regarding predictors of QoL in the elderly population in developing countries, this study was undertaken to assess the overall QoL and its predictors in the elderly population in an urban setting of Bangladesh. In this cross-sectional study, 275 participants were enrolled by systematic sampling at the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Data were collected by using a pretested semi-structured standard questionnaire for QoL (OPQOL-35). Pearson's correlation was used to assess the association between QoL and sociodemographic factors. Multivariate linear regression was conducted to identify predictors of QoL, after controlling for potential confounders. The median age of the participants (n = 275) was 65 years (range, 60 to 85; 25th and 75th percentile, 60 and 68, respectively). The majority (78%) of them were married, and 20% were widowed or divorced. The median score of QoL was 113 (25th and 75th percentile, 101 and 124, respectively). Most of the participants had very poor (bad as can be) or poor (bad) QoL. Only 7.3% were observed to have "good" QoL (scores 140 or more). Females had significantly poorer QoL scores compared to males (p < 0.001). Age, gender, educational status, smoking, and sleep duration significantly predicted QoL in a multiple regression analysis. In conclusion, the QoL of the elderly individuals in Bangladesh was very poor or poor. Future research should focus on service-oriented interventions, especially targeting women. Counseling elderly people to enhance their quality of life may include improving sleep patterns, healthy diets, regular exercise, and caring for their mental health.

Quality of Life and Medication Therapy Adherence in Primary Healthcare: focus on common mental disorders

Introduction. Medication therapy adherence is a challenge in the clinical practice of health providers. Objective. To identify predictors of nonadherence to medication therapy and quality of life (QoL) in medication users. Method. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at five primary health care (PHC) units in Brazil. Standardized tools included the Self-Reporting Questionnaire, Measurement of Treatment Adherence, and World Health Organization Quality-of-Life-Bref, in addition to a sociodemographic and treatment-related questionnaire. Results. Participants with common mental disorders (CMDs) who used psychotropic medication were more likely to be nonadherent to medication treatment. Sociodemographic variables, presence of a CMD, and psychotropic medication use were key predictors of lower QoL in patients treated at PHC. Discussion and conclusion. The findings of this study could inform interventions designed to improve medication therapy adherence and train public health care professionals to enhance health care.

Predictors of quality of life (QOL) and treatment adherence among children with nephrotic syndrome.

Any significant changes in the growth and development of any aspect of life will ultimately affect the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of children with nephrotic syndrome. Various factors can influence treatment adherence, which can promote or decline the child's quality of life (QOL). Objective: To assess the quality of life and adherence to treatment regimen and to identify the predictors of QOL and adherence to treatment regimen among children with nephrotic syndrome. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 59 children with nephrotic syndrome who attended the Paediatric Department of AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, using the PedsQL 4.0 generic core scale to assess the quality of life and adherence response scale. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using the SPSS 20 version. The overall QOL median score was 93.48, with an IQR of 18.48, which indicated good QOL. A median score of treatment adherence was 16 with IQR 5, which indicated that the overall treatment adherence was good. Type of nephrotic syndrome (P = 0.014), developmental stage (P = 0.018), education of mother (P = 0.026), and occupation of mother (P = 0.026) were the variables predicted QOL. Duration of disease (P = 0.006) and duration of therapy (P = 0.005) significantly predicted treatment adherence. Children need continuous reinforcement on treatment adherence strategies to attain and maintain good QOL so that it can help to reduce the disease severity. Controlling the predictors that influence the QOL and treatment adherence has to be counseled among the parents so that their adherence can be sustained throughout the disease process to maintain good QOL.

Postsurgical motor function and processing speed as predictors of quality of life in patients with chronic-phase glioblastoma

PurposePatients with glioblastomas (GBMs) have poor prognosis despite various treatments; therefore, attention should be paid to maintaining the quality of survival. Neurocognitive deficits can affect the quality of life (QOL) in patients with GBM. Most studies concerning QOL and neurocognitive functions have demonstrated a relationship between QOL and self-reported neurocognitive decline, although this method does not accurately reflect damaged functional domains. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the neurocognitive functions that influence the QOL in patients with GBMs using an objective assessment of neurocognitive functions.MethodsData from 40 patients newly diagnosed with GBMs were analyzed. All patients completed the assessment of QOL and various neurological and neurocognitive functions including general cognitive function, processing speed, attention, memory, emotion recognition, social cognition, visuospatial cognition, verbal fluency, language, motor function, sensation, and visual field at 6 months postoperatively. QOL was assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). In the SF-36, the physical, mental, and role and social component summary (PCS, MCS, and RCS, respectively) scores were calculated. Multiple logistic regression analyses and chi-square tests were used to evaluate the association between SF-36 scores and neurocognitive functions.ResultsThe MCS was maintained, while the PCS and RCS scores were significantly lower in patients with GBMs than in healthy controls (p = 0.0040 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Among several neurocognitive functions, motor function and processing speed were significantly correlated with PCS and RCS scores, respectively (p = 0.0048 and p = 0.030, respectively). Patients who maintained their RCS or PCS scores had a higher probability of preserving motor function or processing speed than those with low RCS or PCS scores (p = 0.0026).ConclusionsMotor function and processing speed may be predictors of QOL in patients with GBMs.

Sense of Coherence: A Predictor of Quality of Life in Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Background: The caregivers of cancer patients go through numerous changes in their lives, caused by the complexity of cancer care, which then influence their quality of life (QoL). In this context, the sense of coherence (SoC) has been introduced as individuals' capacity to adapt to complex situations. Objectives: This study aimed at examining the relationship between QoL and SoC among the caregivers of cancer patients. Methods: This descriptive correlational study was performed on the caregivers of cancer patients referred to a teaching hospital in Tehran, Iran. In total, 200 eligible caregivers, selected by purposive and convenience sampling from September to December 2022, completed the research instrument comprised of a researcher-made demographic-clinical information form, the SoC Scale (13-item), and WHOQoL-BREF. The data were analyzed by the SPSS 20 software. To investigate the relationship between caregivers’ SoC and QoL, first, the correlation was determined, and afterward, the significant variables were analyzed, using multiple linear regression. Results: The overall mean score of QoL among the caregivers was 52.12 ± 14.45. In this way, the highest and lowest values were associated with the domains of physical health and social relationships, receiving the mean scores of 55.19 ± 11.46 and 38.40 ± 10.08, respectively. The overall mean score of SoC was also equal to 49.71 ± 9.34. As well, the results of the study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between SoC and QoL (r = 0.585, P &lt; 0.001) as well as its 3 domains. Considering the demographic and clinical factors, the regression outcomes revealed that SoC was a predictor of QoL in the caregivers of cancer patients (P &lt; 0.001, Β = 0.65). Among the demographic factors, a significant correlation was accordingly observed between age, marital status, income level, employment status, and QoL and some of its domains (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: It was argued that SoC could be a positive predictor and a protective factor for QoL among the caregivers of cancer patients. In this vein, it was recommended to give a boost to the SoC dimensions during oncology and palliative care via an interdisciplinary approach and a variety of interventions. Upon developing QoL in the caregivers, QoL among the cancer patients could be then promoted.

Internalizing and externalizing behaviors in children and adolescents with Wilson's disease in the context of quality of life.

Patients with Wilson's disease (WD) are at increased risk of poor quality of life (QoL) and social-emotional outcomes. The above data has been well established in the adult population. What are the predictors of QoL in children and adolescents with WD are unknown. Our study examined whether subjective feelings about QoL are related to the psychosocial functioning in paediatric patients. A cross-sectional study among 50 children with WD, aged 7-18 years. Participants completed the KINDL QoL questionnaire and the Child Behavior Checklist assessing internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Internalizing and externalizing behaviors and their interaction are significant in predicting the QoL of children with WD. Internalizing behaviors are significant predictor of the QoL β = -0.328 (p < 0.05). The effect of internalizing behavior on the QoL varies with the level of externalizing behavior β = -0.344* (p < 0.05). Simple effects analysis indicates that the highest QoL for children with WD is in the group characterized by both low levels of internalizing and medium levels of externalizing behaviors, t = -3.052 (df = 46) and p < 0.01, or high levels of externalizing behaviors, t = -2.725 (df = 46) p < 0.01. The interaction between internalizing behaviors explained an additional 7.5% of the variance in scores on the QoL scale. Overall, the final regression model explained 14.9% of the scores on the QoL scale. Monitoring internalizing and externalizing behaviors will allow a better understanding of the course of treatment. In chronic disease, the QoL is an aspect that determines the doctor-patient relationship and often determines the course of the therapeutic process.

Determinants of quality of life in French nursing home residents across cognitive levels: a comparative study using convergent mixed-methods

BackgroundThe quality of life (QoL) of nursing home residents is multifaceted and influenced by relationships, health, and activities, as per research in international literature. However, studies exploring QoL predictors considering varying cognitive impairment levels are limited in the French context. This study examined the impact of sociodemographic factors and cognitive impairment on the QoL in Alzheimer’s Disease Nursing Homes (QoL-AD NH) scale scores among French nursing home residents. It further identified predictors through responses to qualitative semi-structured interviews. These elements were integrated and compared to understand more comprehensively the multifaceted determinants influencing residents’ QoL.MethodsThis mixed methods study used a cross-sectional convergent design, and quantitative and qualitative studies were carried out simultaneously. Using a generalised linear model and Kruskal–Wallis tests, the quantitative strand (N = 151) measured QoL with the QoL-AD NH scale and examined sociodemographic predictors of QoL. The qualitative strand (N = 78) involved semi-structured interviews with residents across four levels of cognitive functioning (no, mild, moderate, and severe impairment) and explored their QoL determinants through thematic analysis. Both strands were then integrated and analysed.ResultsMild cognitive impairment and depression negatively predicted QoL-AD NH scores. For specific items, residents with mild cognitive impairment had lower “Ability to keep busy daily” and “Current life in general” scores than residents without cognitive impairment. Qualitatively, family relationships were indispensable for QoL across groups, but those with mild cognitive impairment complained about a lack of activities in nursing homes. The analysis identified convergent predictors and enriched our understanding of daily occupation. Theory comparisons revealed assessment limitations in psychological well-being.ConclusionsA mixed approach provided a nuanced understanding of QoL, highlighting vulnerable groups and areas for improving assessment. Combining the results from standardised instruments with semi-structured interviews allowed us to capture a fuller range of experiences. The findings suggest a need to reconsider QoL assessment tools for nursing home residents and policies to address their needs regardless of their cognitive levels. They highlight the value of mixed methods for researching this multifaceted field.

Quality of life of caregivers of patients on home enteral nutrition

BackgroundHome enteral nutrition (HEN) patients often rely heavily on caregivers (CGs), whose quality of life (QoL) is significantly impacted. This study aimed to identify potentially modifiable factors influencing the QoL of CGs of HEN patients. MethodsA multicentre, cross-sectional study was conducted in three home nutrition centers from Jan 2021 to Jan 2022. We enrolled 90 CGs of HEN patients, collecting data on QoL (WHOQOL-BREF), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), CG burden (Zarit Burden Interview), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), life satisfaction (Satisfaction With Life Scale) and financial status. ResultsThe mean age of CGs was 54.53 years, with 76% being female. 19% of CGs rated their QoL as poor, and 57% had depression. Multivariate regression analysis showed that financial satisfaction (β = 0.14, p < 0.01) and depression (β = -0.03, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of QoL (R2 = 0.6). Depression correlated with CG burden (r = 0.54, p < 0.001), poor sleep quality (r = 0.47, p < 0.001), stress (r = 0.68, p < 0.001), and financial satisfaction (r = -0.39, p = 0.001). The average monthly income per person was $663.3 and 51.2% of CGs were not satisfied with their financial situation. Lower income was correlated with stress (r = -0.298, p = 0.023). CG burden was associated with financial satisfaction (r = -0.373, p < 0.001), quality of sleep (r = 0.296, p = 0.005) depression (r = 0.54, p < 0.001), stress (r = 0.5, p < 0.001) and satisfaction with life (r = -0.389, p < 0.001). ConclusionsCGs of HEN patients face substantial challenges impacting their QoL, particularly financial stress and depression. Addressing these issues through comprehensive support systems is crucial to improve CG well-being and, subsequently, patient care outcomes.

Psychological distress among family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in Uganda

BackgroundAlzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) present growing global health challenges, especially in aging populations, such as Uganda. In Uganda, familial caregiving, predominantly undertaken by female relatives, is the primary form of support provided to patients with ADRD. Cultural stigma around dementia and limited access to support services amplify caregivers' challenges. This study examined psychological distress, depression, and quality of life (QoL) among family caregivers of patients with ADRD in Wakiso District, Uganda.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 90 caregivers from three sub-counties in Wakiso, selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse experiences. Participants included caregivers aged 18 years and older who were knowledgeable and had cared for a person with ADRD for not less than six months, with those providing more than 70% of physical care being prioritised. Data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Caregiver Dementia Quality of Life Measurement Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, with an 80% response rate achieved through local collaboration. The statistical analyses focused on psychological distress, QoL, and depression.ResultsThe study included 82.2% females and 17.8% males, with a median age of 52 years for females and 35 years, respectively. Females were more likely to be single or widowed, whereas males were more likely to be married. The study revealed a high prevalence of psychological distress and depression among caregivers (64.4%) regardless of sex. The analysis indicated that having children was a significant predictor of better QoL (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.79–5.66, p = 0.034) and a lower risk of depression (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01–0.86, p = 0.036). No other sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with health outcomes across the models.ConclusionOur findings revealed a heavy burden of psychological distress and depression among Ugandan caregivers of patients with ADRD, highlighting the need for structured support systems, including mental health services and gender-responsive interventions in low-resource settings.

재난피해자의 삶의 질에 영향을 미치는 심리사회적 요인

This study aimed to examine the level of quality of life (QOL) and the psychological and social factors influencing QOL among single-person and multi-person household disaster victims. This study utilized the third-year data from the Disaster Victims Panel Survey. The final analysis included data from 1,301 adults aged 20 and above, and multiple regression analyses were conducted separately for single-person and multi-person households. The main findings of this study are as follows: It was found that the level of QOL among multi-person household disaster victims was higher than that of single-person household disaster victims. Additionally, different psychological and social factors influencing QOL were observed between single-person and multi-person households. Among the psychosocial factors, resilience, depression, self-rated health status, and community resilience were identified as significant common predictors influencing the QOL of disaster victims in all household types. On the other hand, for single-person household disaster victims, only post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) emerged as a significant predictor of QOL. In the case of multi-person household disaster victims, social support and satisfaction with relief and distribution services emerged as new predictive factors influencing QOL. Based on these findings, policy and practical implications for improving the QOL of disaster victims according to household types are suggested.

Female education ban by the Taliban: A descriptive survey study on suicidal ideation, mental health, and health-related quality of life among girls in Afghanistan.

Following the Taliban's resurgence, Afghan girls were probited from attending school and university, likely causing adverse psychological effects. Therefore, the present study investigated depression, suicidal ideation, and quality of life (QoL) among Afghan girls banned from education by the Taliban. A survey study assessed depression, suicidal ideation, and QoL among 426 females prohibited from attending secondary schools, high schools, and universities by the Taliban. The study used the CES-D 20 Scale to assess depression, and the WHOQOL-Bref Questionnaire to assess QoL. Associations between variables were tested with chi-square tests, and predictors of QoL were analyzed through multivariate regression analysis. Among the 426 participants, 87.6% exhibited depression symptoms and 49.8% reported suicidal thoughts. Significant predictors of overall QoL included monthly family income (B=0.147, P=0.001), recent others' behavior toward participants (B=-0.247, P<0.001), physical illness (B=0.110, P=0.011), experiencing a recent traumatic event (B=0.108, P=0.015), depression (B=-0.159, P<0.001) and suicidal ideation (B=-0.187, P<0.001). In Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, the results indicated that female students who have been prohibited from studying in classes have a high prevalence of depression and suicidal ideation. Having depression and suicidal ideation significantly predicted decreased quality of life among female students.

Athlete Identity, Resilience, Satisfaction with Life and Well-Being of Para Badminton Players: A Multinational Survey.

To explore regional differences (i.e. Europe, Asia and others) in the well-being of para-athletes and its potential psychosocial determinants, including the Athletic Identity Measure Scale (AIMS), the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The study was a cross-sectional survey using data from multinational badminton federations. The study participants were athletes registered in the Para Badminton Classification Master List of the Badminton World Federation (BWF). The main study outcome is the WHO Quality of Life-Disability Questionnaire (WHOQOL-DIS). There were 1,385 (aged 36 years old, IQR 18 years old) registrants on the master list. Respondents totaled 170. Only 137 (65% were males) were included in the analysis after excluding those with missing data (Europe 40%, Asia 30%, others 30%). Following the results of factor analysis, the original Athletic Identity Measure Scale (AIMS) was separated into self-identity (SI) and AIMS-modified. SI, AIMS-modified, the BRS and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were all scored above average. The AIMS-modified scores of Europeans were significantly lower than those of other non-Asians (U = 757.000, P < 0.05). BRS was statistically higher among those with acquired disabilities (median: 3.33) compared to those with congenital disabilities (median: 3.0) (U = 1,717.000, Z = -2.711, P < 0.05) and among Europeans (median: 3.3) compared to Asians (median: 3.0) (U = 704.500, P < 0.05). The regression model explained 32% of the variability in quality of life (QOL) with five significant predictors. The SWLS (β = 0.307, P = 0.01), BRS (β = 0.269, P = 0.01), full-time employment (β = 0.191, P = 0.05) and being female (β = 0.162, P = 0.05) all had a positive effect on QOL, but not the AIMS (-0.228, P = 0.05). The results show that the athletes' resilience, satisfaction with life and identity vary across regions. Furthermore, satisfaction with life, employment and gender were found to be significant predictors of athletes' QOL.