Perceived Social Support and Self-Assessed Health as Predictors of Quality of Life in Seniors
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51371/issn.1840-2976.534Keywords:
family, social support, quality of life, NSSQ, SF-36Abstract
Purpose: Social support is a key factor in the quality of life for individuals over 60, impacting their social functioning and
successful aging. Family support, in particular, strengthens intergenerational ties and fosters a sense of belonging. This study
aimed to explore the social support network of people over 60 and assess their self-rated quality of life.
Methods The survey involved 322 participants, with 300 completing the survey (271 women, 29 men). Two tools were used:
the Polish adaptation of the Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire (NSSQ) and the Short Form-36v2 Health Survey for selfassessment
of quality of life (QualityMetric's PRO CoRE License Agreement. License Agreement: QUO-04385-V4P6T6)
Results: The results revealed no significant correlation between the participants' age and their NSSQ or SF-36 scores.
However, better self-assessment of material situation and health was linked to more indications of individuals providing
support (P=.0016). Additionally, as health self-assessment improved, limitations due to physical health problems decreased
(P=.04). A positive correlation was found between physical fitness self-assessment and the NSSQ subscales, including support
received and provided (P<.05).
Conclusions: The quality of life for older adults remains closely tied to family, with the extent of these relationships influenced
by various individual mechanisms and preferences.
