[Analysis of quality of life concept in the context of older adults with physical disabilities].
BACKGROUND
The ultimate goal of the occupational therapist is to enhance or maintain a client's quality of life.


OBJECTIVE
It is difficult, however, to find an operational definition of this concept. This article presents the results of a concept analysis of quality of life in the context of older adults with physical disabilities.


RESULTS
Quality of life is defined by a subjective evaluation of the life circumstances of an individual with respect to his/her values. The results indicate the importance of physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being, the satisfaction with life and the accomplishment of meaningful occupations. A satisfying functional state, manifested by the presence of adapted behaviors and the feeling of control over one's life are also useful to consider.


CONCLUSIONS
This definition suggests that occupational therapists should broaden the vision of their treatment objectives (beyond the realization of activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living) and offer some avenues for the enhancement of quality of life.
Levasseur
Mélanie
M
Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé de l'Université de Sherbrooke, QC. melanie.levasseur@usherbrooke.ca
Tribble
Denise St-Cyr
DS
Desrosiers
Johanne
J
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology; D000368:Aged; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D011788:Quality of Life