Influence of Self-Care on the Quality of Life of Elderly People with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases: A Systematic Review
<b>Background/Objectives:</b> Self-care is a cornerstone of healthy aging and chronic disease management; however, evidence on the most effective intervention models for improving quality of life in older adults with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remains fragmented. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of self-care interventions in promoting quality of life and health outcomes in older adults with NCDs. <b>Methods:</b> A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251040613). Randomized and non-randomized clinical trials published between 2019 and 2024 were retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost. Eligible studies included adults aged ≥60 years with NCDs receiving self-care interventions. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were independently performed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. <b>Results:</b> Twenty-nine studies involving 7241 older adults were included. Self-care interventions comprised nurse-led educational programs, digital health strategies, community- and peer-based approaches, and person-centered care models. Multicomponent and continuous interventions demonstrated consistent improvements in physical and psychological domains of quality of life, self-efficacy, autonomy, symptom management, and treatment adherence. Digital interventions enhanced monitoring and engagement, although their effectiveness varied according to sensory and health literacy limitations. <b>Conclusions:</b> Structured, person-centered, and nurse-led self-care interventions are effective in improving quality of life and autonomy among older adults with NCDs. These findings support their integration into primary and community-based care, reinforcing their relevance for clinical practice, care planning, and the development of assistive and educational strategies in aging care.
Authors
- Mônica Dourado Silva Barbosa
- Poliana Martins Ferreira (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9780-8633)
- MURILO CÉSAR DO NASCIMENTO
- R. Pereira
- Jonas Paulo Batista Dias
- Teresa Martins
- Namie Okino Sawada
Institutions
- Universidade de Ribeirão Preto (BR)
- Universidade de São Paulo (BR)
- Universidade Federal de Alfenas (BR)
- Escola Superior de Enfermagem da Universidade do Porto (PT)
- Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Coimbra (PT)
- University of Coimbra (PT)
- University of Minho (PT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Healthcare
- Published
- 2026-01-26
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14030308
- Primary Topic
- Chronic Disease Management Strategies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00