Quality of Life and Caregiving of Korean Rural Centenarians : Focusing on Self-Care, Private Care, and Public Care

This study analyzed the quality of life of centenarians living in rural Korea by examining their housing environment, economic status, and levels of self-care. It also conducted qualitative research on how self-care, family care, and public care could affect their quality of life. In July and August 2022, four researchers conducted in-depth interviews and participant observations with 74 centenarians, their family members, and caregivers. Collected data were restructured into a quantitative format for analysis.BR/ Quality of life was defined as the ability to maintain daily living at an appropriate level. Centenarians with a high quality of life accounted for 50%. They were characterized by well-organized and sanitary living environments, proper health management, and sufficient external assistance. On the other hand, 24.3% had a low quality of life due to poor sanitation, economic hardship, insufficient family support, and unmanaged living conditions. They faced significant care gaps.BR/ An analysis of support factors revealed that self-care accounted for 40.2 points, followed by family support (33.0 points) and public support (14.1 points), with a 12.7-point care gap. Centenarians with the highest quality of life achieved a balance among self-care, family care, and public care. These findings emphasize the importance of balanced care systems and propose related policy recommendations.