Influence of Family Environment and Social Adjustment on Quality of Life of Elderly
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Date
2016-06
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University of Agricultural Science, Dharwad
Abstract
A differential research design was employed to compare the quality of life, family environment, social adjustment and self-esteem of 200 elderly between northern Karnataka (UAS jurisdiction) and Jaintia hills, Meghalaya as well as to know the influence of socio demographic factors. Quality of Life Inventory Scale, Family Environment Scale, Social Adjustment Scale for the aged, and Socio-economic Status Scale were the measures used. The results revealed that quality of life was significantly better among elderly of Jaintia hills than northern Karnataka. The family environment of elderly of northern Karnataka was significantly better on family relationships (cohesion, expressiveness) and better maintenance (control) than elderly of Jaintia hills. Though the family environment of northern Karnataka group was better than Jaintia hills, the quality of life was lower which may be due to a higher proportion of elderly from higher SES (28 %) as against 6 per cent from northern Karnataka. Majority of elderly of were almost similar on social adjustment and self-esteem. Among elderly of both the regions, young-old (60-74 yrs) males with upper middle SES and those living with spouse had better quality of life, family environment, social adjustment and self-esteem than old-old (75-84 yrs) and oldest old (85+yrs). Poor SES elderly, unmarried, widower, widow and those elderly living in Old Age Home and living alone were at lower level of quality of life, family environment, social adjustment and self-esteem in both the regions. Elderly with better family environment, social adjustment and self-esteem had significantly better quality of life, while elderly with higher family conflict had lower quality of life in both the regions. There is a need for programmes for elderly and care providers for improving their quality of life, family environment, social adjustment and self-esteem.