Factors Influencing Quality of Life Among Older Adults Residing in Rural Communities Along the Thai-Cambodian Border: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The rapid increase in the elderly population has become a significant global challenge, particularly in ensuring the effective management and provision of care to promote a good quality of life for older adults.
Objectives: This study aims to explore the quality of life and identify the factors that predict it among the elderly living in rural communities along the Thai-Cambodian border.
Methods: This cross-sectional study, based on the ecological model, will collect data from 400 elderly individuals in LahanSai District, Buriram Province, Thailand, along the Thai-Cambodian border. Data collection is scheduled from January to April 2024.
Results: The quality of life of the elderly in the sample group was found to be moderate in both overall and individual aspects. Nine independent variables were identified as predictors of quality of life, explaining 62.6% of the variance (R² = 0.626), with statistical significance (F = 72.893, p < .001). Positive predictors included the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) (B = 0.674, p < .001), cognitive score (B = 3.381, p < .001), and social support (B = 0.138, p = .018). In contrast, variables with negative influences included the number of medications received (B = -3.994, p = .020), vulnerability score (B = -1.649, p < .001), age group (B = -1.244, p = .008), and fall risk score (B = -0.836, p < .001).
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that a multifaceted approach, addressing both personal and social factors, is crucial for improving outcomes in rural and underserved communities.