title: Quality of life demands comprehension and further exploration.
abstract: The intention of this study was to elucidate what the concept "quality of life" means to elderly women. A qualitative approach based on 282 women (age 75-93 years) showed that the participants were able to articulate what quality of life meant to them. Thinking about what makes for a good quality of life, 82.3% mentioned the importance of good social functioning, 68.8% mentioned good health, 22.3% mentioned good economic circumstances, and 14.9% mentioned the importance of living in their own flat or house. Six categories were identified based on the women's descriptions: holism, relationships, activity and participation, pragmatic approach to health, belonging and social environment, and personal values. The lay perspective on quality of life is characterized by three qualities: preservation of continuity-sameness within change, power-empowerment, and the quest for meaning.
authors.affiliation: Oslo University College Faculty of Health Sciences.
authors.forename: Astrid
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bergland
authors.forename: Ingrid
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Narum
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009664:Norway; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology