Knowledge of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is less strongly associated with self-management of NCDs and quality of life in older age in Phayao, Thailand: A moderated mediation analysis

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health concern and are associated with lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The objective of this study was to investigate whether the indirect association of knowledge of NCDs with HRQoL through self-management of NCDs is moderated by age among older adults living in communities in Phayao Province, Thailand. A cross-sectional design was employed, and 424 older adults selected with the convenience sampling method participated in the study. Key variables included and quantified with standard scales were knowledge, self-management, and quality of life (WHOQOL-OLD). Data were analysed with Hayes’ PROCESS Macro through a moderated mediation model. Knowledge was positively associated with HRQoL and self-management of NCDs but associated with age. HRQoL was positively associated with self-management of NCDs, and self-management of NCDs partially mediated the positive association of knowledge and HRQoL. The association between knowledge and self-management of NCDs was weaker in older age groups. A negative moderated mediation was confirmed, suggesting that the positive indirect association of knowledge with HRQoL through self-management of NCDs was weaker in older age. Knowledge was associated with better self-management of NCDs and HRQoL among older adults. The association of knowledge with HRQoL was weaker in older age. Knowledge-based interventions aimed at improving self-management of NCDs in older age can enhance HRQoL.