Factors Affecting the Quality of Life of Institutionalized Older Adults With Dementia

This study aimed to determine the effects of cognitive function, activities of daily living independence, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and the diversity of activities and participation on the quality of life (QOL) of institutionalized older adults with dementia. The causal structure of these variables was also explored using structural equation modeling (SEM) based on our hypotheses. Conducted between August 2021 and December 2024, this cross-sectional study comprised 103 older adults admitted to care facilities in Japan. The SEM results and path diagram showed that BPSD had a direct negative effect on QOL, whereas the diversity of activities and participation had direct and indirect positive effects. Cognitive function had an indirectly positive effect on QOL via the diversity of activities and participation. Therefore, reducing BPSD and providing a diversity of activities and participation may contribute to improving the QOL.