Quality of Life Among Old Age Homes Residents in Gujarat, India: Evidence from a Sequential Explanatory Mixed Method Study

Introduction: The concept of old age homes is developing in India. For many elderlies, moving into old age homes becomes their only viable choice. Objectives: To assess the quality of life of the elderly living in old age homes and to explore stakeholders' perspectives on running these facilities. Methods: It was a sequential explanatory mixed methods study design consisting of a quantitative (Survey) followed by a qualitative phase. In the first phase, residents of old age homes were selected using a purposive sampling method. To evaluate their quality of life, an Old People Quality of Life questionnaire was used. In the second phase, six key informant interviews were conducted to explore their perspectives. Quantitative data was analyzed using bivariate and multiple regression techniques, while qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Results: The standardized mean score of quality of life of 102 elderlies was 70.3(10.3), with the lowest score for the social domain 56.2(13.5). Multiple regression analysis showed that quality of life was significantly influenced by education level, duration of stay and source of income. There was lack of recreational activities. Conclusion: Residents who were getting pension experienced a better QOL. Lowest score in social domain explained by qualitative finding.