Quality of Life and Associated Factors Among Older Adults With Chronic Diseases in Japan and India: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study.

OBJECTIVE

Population aging and chronic diseases among older adults pose significant challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. Asia, Japan, and India represent contrasting cases in their approach to these challenges. This study examined factors associated with quality of life (QOL) among older adults with chronic diseases and compared these factors between Japan and India.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included outpatients aged ≥65 years with chronic diseases attending university hospitals in Japan (n = 230) and India (n = 265). The World Health Organization's Quality of Life assessment measured QOL across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Demographic characteristics, social activities, and socioeconomic status were assessed. Multiple regression analysis identified factors associated with QOL in each country.

RESULTS

Living arrangements differed between the countries, with 90.2% of Indian participants living with grandchildren, compared with 4.8% in Japan. Japanese participants had significantly higher psychological and environmental QOL scores. In Japanese participants, social activities and financial management were strongly associated with QOL across all domains (adjusted R2 = 0.145-0.378). Indian participants showed minimal associations (adjusted R2 = 0.008-0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals distinct patterns in QOL determinants between Japan and India, suggesting that cultural context significantly influences factors affecting QOL among older adults with chronic diseases. These findings emphasize the need for culturally sensitive approaches to older adults' care.