Quality of life in older individuals with chronic diseases: The role of depression and daily functioning

AIM: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with quality of life (QoL) in older individuals with chronic diseases, focusing on the impact of depression and functional independence in daily activities within a primary care setting. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 200 participants aged ≥65 years who had at least one diagnosed chronic diseases. Data were collected using a sociodemographic form, the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, the Lawton and Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, the Geriatric Depression Scale, and the Brief Older People's Quality of Life questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors of QoL. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 72.92 ± 9.27 years. Depression (β = -0.669, P < 0.001), independence in activities of daily living (β = 0.171, P = 0.013) and the presence of additional chronic diseases (β = 0.137, P = 0.005) significantly predicted QoL, accounting for 64.6% of the variance (adjusted R² = 0.611). CONCLUSION: Depression and reduced independence in activities of daily living are key determinants of diminished QoL in older adults with chronic diseases. Routine screening for depressive symptoms, and interventions that promote functional autonomy are strongly recommended in primary care to support QoL in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 1301-1306.