Determining the Appropriate Support for Older Adults with Different Levels of Vitality and Health-Related Quality of Life: An Explanatory Study

Abstract

Vitality and health-related quality of life are often assessed in older adults. However, these assessments do not provide guidance on support for older adults with different levels of vitality and health-related quality of life. This guidance can be established through segmentation. The Subjective Health Experience model segments individuals and indicates support for each segment. By examining how older adults with different levels of vitality and health-related quality of life correspond with each segment and by specifying the indicated support to older adults, guidance can be established. This was examined by administering a questionnaire to 904 older adults and interviewing 8. Analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and the matrix method. In segment 1, older adults sustained higher levels of vitality and health-related quality of life relative to other segments. They need information and certainty. In segment 2, older adults sustained lower levels of vitality and health-related quality of life relative to segment 1, and higher levels relative to segment 3 or 4. They need planning and structure. In segment 3, older adults sustained lower levels of vitality and health-related quality of life relative to segment 1 or 2, and higher levels relative to segment 4. They need emotive assistance. In segment 4, older adults sustained lower levels of vitality and health-related quality of life relative to other segments. They need personal coaching. As levels of vitality and health-related quality of life correspond with the segments, deploying vitality and health-related quality of life measures together with the model might be beneficial.

Personalizing supportive healthcare for patients with immunological disorders

“…-Insert Fig 1 - [15] Several studies have been conducted utilizing the SHE-model. For instance, the segments within this model have been further differentiated based on demographic and socio-economic variables [13], and in relation to vitality within older individuals [20]. In addition, health perceptions have been mapped across diverse disease domains [21], and the empirical relationship between health perception and health behaviour has been established [22].…”