지역사회 거주 저소득 독거노인의 주관적 건강상태 관련요인

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the subjective health status (SHS) of low-income older adultsliving alone. Methods: This is a cross-sectional correlational study using secondary data analysis. Sociodemographicand health-related characteristics were included in this analysis. The health-related characteristics were categorized intothree domains: physical, characterized by the number of chronic diseases and fall-related factors, timed up and go, andgrip strength; psychological, in terms of depression and loneliness; and social, in terms of social support. Data wereanalyzed using descriptive analysis, t-test, ANOVA, Pearsons correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regressionanalysis. Results: The mean SHS score was 2.46 out of five. Several factors influenced the SHS of low-income olderadults living alone, including sex, age, level of education, monthly income, and the three domains. Four significantpredictive factors of SHS in low-income older adults living alone were identified (42.5%): the number of chronic diseases,fear of falling, depression, and social support. Conclusion: SHS is a critical factor for older adults living alone on alow-income. Hence, evaluating SHS and developing interventions to improve it periodically is necessay. Suchinterventions should consider chronic disease management, screening and mediation for depression and fear of falling,and strengthening their social support systems.