Measurement of Quality of Life in the Frail Elderly

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the literature on quality of life measures with a focus on those measures that are appropriate for use in the frail elderly. First, the literature is reviewed to determine whether there is consensus on a definition of quality of life and to define quality of life. An outline of the characteristics of measures is presented, highlighting the aspects of those characteristics that make a measure more or less desirable for assessing quality of life in the frail elderly. The chapter discusses and critically reviews several measures of quality of life that are currently available to determine the extent to which they are practical for use in the frail elderly. In order for a quality of life measure to be used, it must be practical for administration in the population of interest. Aspects of practicality to consider include the burden placed on respondents, the choice of respondent, the method of administration and likely refusal rates or rates of missing data.