Quality of Life of Senior Citizens at Social Welfare Centers in Cartagena (Colombia)

Abstract

Objective: Describe the quality of life related to the health of senior residents at social welfare centers in Cartagena (Colombia). Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive study. The population was comprised of 187 seniors living at welfare centers in Cartagena. The Mental Status Test (Pfeiffer), a socio-demographic survey and the Multicultural Quality of Life Index were applied. Confidentiality of information was maintained, the participants remained anonymous, and informed consent was given. Results: The mean age was 75 (95%). Most of the participants are single (57.6%). Some have a primary education (45.5%), are receiving medication (80.3%), engage in physical activity (54.5%) and carry out non-productive activities (37.9%). The self-perception of quality of life related to health tends towards values that can be considered good (7.6%). Conclusions: The aspects with the highest scores were spiritual fulfillment and self-care; the lowest scores pertained to physical well-being and community support. The information will be useful to propose health care policies and practices for this segment of the population.