Impact on the quality of life perceived by older adults participating in the MAS Self-reliant Older Adults program: A Preliminary Study

The population of elderly people has been increasing worldwide. Chile has not been oblivious to this reality and, with the purpose of increasing participation and promoting the self-sufficiency of the elderly, the Chilean Government has launched the MAS Adultos Mayores Autovalentes (More Self-sufficient Older Adults) Program. Objective: To analyze the impact on the perceived quality of life of elderly people who participate in the MAS Adultos Mayores Autovalentes Program. Methodology: Prospective longitudinal analytical quantitative study. The questionnaire "The World Health Organization Quality of Life" (WHOQOL-BREF) was applied to 15 elderly people (M=71.60 years, SD=4.53) participating in the MAS AMA program in the commune of Molina, Maule Region - Chile, selected by convenience sampling. Results: Statistically significant effects were found in three of the dimensions evaluated in the quality of life questionnaire; however, in two other dimensions and in global results, no statistically significant effects were found. Conclusion: Participation in programs aimed at promoting autonomy in the elderly has a positive impact on perceived quality of life.