The Impact of Depressive Mood and Cognitive Impairment on Quality of Life of the Elderly.

BACKGROUND:The quality of life (QOL) of the elderly can be influenced by numerous factors. We assessed QOL, cognitive functions, depression and clinical data in elderly aged 65 and over with the aim of analysing factors affecting their QOL.METHODS:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with elderly over the age of 65, and their QOL, cognitive functions and depressive symptoms were assessed by validated clinical tests and screening tools.RESULTS:The correlation between QOL scales and cognitive tests was not significant. In contrast, the results of depression scales showed significant negative correlation with the scores of the QOL scales. A better QOL was determined by lower age, lack of depressive symptoms, and higher scores in the QOL-AD (Alzheimer's disease) scale. Depressive mood has much more negative impact on the QOL of the elderly than cognitive impairment.CONCLUSIONS:Our results demonstrated a close correlation between QOL and depressive mood in the elderly. The early detection and effective management of affective and cognitive symptoms in the elderly can not only restore mental health but may also improve their QOL.