Factors influencing quality of life in older adults with osteoarthritis prior to total knee replacement

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Jeanne B. Jenkins (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Patricia Crane

Abstract: The purposes of this study were to explore the expectations of older adults with medically diagnosed osteoarthritis (OA) who are scheduled for total knee replacement (TKR) surgery and to examine factors that influence the older adult's quality of life prior to TKR surgery. The revised Wilson and Cleary model of health-related quality of life was used to guide the study. Characteristics of the individual (age, race, sex, expectations), characteristic of the environment (social support), biological factors (body mass index), symptoms (pain, fatigue, depression), functional status, and general health perception were examined to determine their influence on overall quality of life. A cross-sectional, correlational non-experimental study was conducted with a convenience sample of 75 older adults who were planning first time TKR surgery for OA of the knee. Participants were mostly female (76%), White (67%), married (73%), and approximately one-third reported an annual household income greater than $71,000. The ages of the sample ranged from 52 to 86 years, with a mean age of 69 years (SD = 8.179). When all 11 variables were included in the model, 62% of the variability in overall quality of life was explained. However, only the variables of depression, functional status, general health perception, and social support significantly (p <= 0.05) contributed to quality of life. Individuals in this study reported high expectations for the outcomes of the TKR surgery, such as improved symptoms and physical function as well as high overall quality of life. Future studies should continue to explore the indirect influence of expectations and the relationships among the factors that influence the older adult's quality of life prior to TKR surgery to develop interventions to enhance their quality of life.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 2010
Keywords
Older adults, Osteoarthritis, Quality of life
Subjects
Osteoarthritis.
Older people.
Quality of life.

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