engleski

Quality of life and longevity: the oldest-olds' views

Our study examines the perspectives on longevity and psychophysical well-being and relates them to functional ability of the oldest-olds from the Croatian population. The data from 300 subjects aged 85-101 yrs who possess preserved psychological and cognitive abilities (MMS>17) and live in old peoples' homes are extracted from the extensive anthropological and genetic-epidemiological study of aging started in 2007. In addition to numerous biomedical measures, the comprehensive structured interview was applied including the questions regarding socio-demographic and health status, medical history, nutritional habits, physical activity and quality of life. Two age groups were compared: 85-89 vs. 90-101 yrs. The elderly identified continuous physical and mental activity, genetics, optimism, family contacts and healthy nutrition as main reasons for their long lives. The older-olds did not complain more often about their health, mobility or independence, declared equally frequent unfavourable health behaviours (apart from physical activity) but had greater functional disability compared to younger group. They declared equally often engagement in different mental activities and their cognitive function was reasonably well preserved. They reported equally intensive social and regular family contacts but loneliness and the feeling of uselessness are among the main current problems of both age groups. As much as 40% are satisfied with their present life, and 15% report the age of 85+ as the most satisfying period of their life, both age groups equally. The interviewed oldest-olds appear to be well adapted to their lives. Their explanations, attitudes and preferences may help enhancing quality of institutional care delivered to this vulnerable population group.

quality of life ; ageing ; longevity ; senescence ; anthropology ; demography ; Croatia

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