Calidad de vida en los adultos mayores de los centros gerontológicos de la ciudad de Cuenca, Ecuador, septiembre 2024 - febrero 2025

Abstract

The World Health Organization describes quality of life as the way individuals perceive their position in life, which is influenced by different factors. The population of older adults is increasing rapidly worldwide, and it is projected that by 2050, 1 in 5 people will be over 60 years old. In Ecuador, this group represents 9% of the total population, with a projection of 18% by 2054, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC, by its Spanish acronym) 2023. This cross-sectional analytical observational study with a correlational scope aims to analyze the quality of life of 345 older adults attending gerontological centers in Cuenca. The WHOQOL-BREF scale was applied to 183 older adults, and the data were organized using SPSS software version 21. Sociodemographic variables and their relationship with quality of life were analyzed with a 95% confidence level and the Chi-square test (p < 0.05). A total of 183 older adults participated, and the results showed that 15.6% of older adults had a low quality of life, 17.9% had a high quality of life, and the largest percentage, 66.5%, had a moderate quality of life. In conclusion, older adults who attend gerontological centers have a moderate quality of life. However, it is important to implement strategies to improve emotional well-being, access to recreational activities, and autonomy to promote healthy and dignified aging. Keywords: quality of life, older adults, gerontological centers, WHOQOL-BREF scale