Accomplishment level and satisfaction with social participation of older adults: association with quality of life and best correlates.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to (1) explore whether quality of life (QOL) is more associated with satisfaction with social participation (SP) than with level of accomplishment in SP and (2) examine respective correlates of accomplishment level and satisfaction with SP.


METHODS
A cross-sectional design was used with a convenience sample of 155 older adults (mean age=73.7; 60% women) having various levels of activity limitations. Accomplishment level and satisfaction with SP (dependent variables) were estimated with the social roles items of the assessment of life habits. Potential correlates were human functioning components.


RESULTS
Correlations between QOL and accomplishment level and satisfaction with SP did not differ (P=0.71). However, best correlates of accomplishment level and satisfaction with SP were different. Higher accomplishment level of SP was best explained by younger age, activity level perceived as stable, no recent stressing event, better well-being, higher activity level, and fewer obstacles in "Physical environment and accessibility" (R2=0.79). Greater satisfaction with SP was best explained by activity level perceived as stable, better self-perceived health, better well-being, higher activity level, and more facilitators in "Social support and attitudes" (R2=0.51).


CONCLUSIONS
With some exceptions, these best correlates may be positively modified and thus warrant special attention in rehabilitation interventions.
Levasseur
Mélanie
M
School of Rehabilitation, Université de Sherbrooke, 3001 12ième avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, QC, J1H 5N4, Canada. Melanie.Levasseur@USherbrooke.ca
Desrosiers
Johanne
J
Whiteneck
Gale
G
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D019058:Community Networks; D003256:Community Participation; D003258:Consumer Behavior / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D009043:Motor Activity; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D011792:Quebec; D012938:Social Perception; D013223:Statistics as Topic