Articles Vol. 66 No. VoL 66. English Version No 1, 2025 08/08/2025

48. HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED AMONG THE ELDERLY LIVING IN URBAN VIETNAM

Duong Anh Thy1, Cao Nguyen Hoai Thuong1, Tran Minh Thai1, Phung Khanh Lam1
1 Faculty of Public Health, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine
Corresponding author: duonganhthy9101094@gmail.com
DOI: 10.52163/yhc.v66iVoL.English Version.2990
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Keywords
EQ-5D-5L elderly Health-Related Quality of Life
Abstract

Introduction: Population aging is a significant challenge for Vietnam, particularly in urban areas, where the proportion of elderly individuals is increasing. Describing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and associated factors in the context of this aging process plays a crucial role in shaping future elderly care services and policies. The aim of this study is to measure HRQoL and identify related factors among elderly individuals (aged ≥60) living in urban areas of Vietnam.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Ward 16, District 8, one of the most populous wards in Ho Chi Minh City. HRQoL was measured using the EuroQol-5 dimensions-5 levels (EQ-5D-5L) instrument. A convenience sampling technique was employed with a sample frame of 2,447 elderly individuals. A total of 387 elderly individuals were selected from this sample frame between March and April 2021. Inclusion criteria: individuals aged ≥60 years living in Ward 16 at the time of the study and who agreed to participate. Exclusion criteria: elderly individuals with mental health issues, those unable to answer independently, or those with missing information for any of the five domains (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression).

Results: The EQ-5D-5L index of older people had a median of 0.931 (IQR 0.847-1.000); the EQ VAS score had a median of 70 (IQR 60-80). The mean EQ-5D-5L index was 0.884 (SD = 0.18); the mean EQ VAS score was 72.14 (SD = 15.51). The study found a correlation between age group, sex, education, income-generating work, self-rated economic status, and most health issues with HRQoL.

Conclusion: The results of this study serve as a reference for public health programs supporting the elderly population, particularly in urban areas. Furthermore, elderly individuals will have a clearer understanding of their HRQoL and be able to implement appropriate personal solutions to improve their HRQoL.

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