Individual-Level Active Aging Index and Quality of Life of Older People: A Population-Based Survey in Tehran

Background: Iran is one of the fastest ageing countries in the world. The model of Active Ageing (AA) could be a strategy contributing in addressing the problem of population ageing in Iran. This study measured the status of AA in Iran and examined its associations with the health-related quality of life of older people.

Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 623 people aged 55 + years resident in Tehran was conducted. In total, 590 people responded. The AA was measured using the Active Ageing Index (AAI) questionnaire and the health-related quality of life was measured using SF-36 questionnaire. Associations between the domains and the overall AAI scores with the quality of life were examined by MANCOVA analysis in four models using the STATA software.

Results: The score of overall AAI was calculated at 26.8 (men 33.9 vs. women 20.6) out of 100. We found a stronger association of the AAI with the physical component than the mental component of the SF-36. Generally the 1^st (employment) and the 2^nd (participation in society) domains of the AAI showed little or no association with SF-36, but there was an association between the 3^rd domain (enabling environment for active ageing) and the SF-36 and a particularly strong associations with the 4^th domain (independent, healthy and secure living capacity).

Conclusions: Iranian elderly, particularly women, are experiencing relatively inactive life, which negatively influence on their health-related quality of life. To improve the AAI status in Iran, some aspects including "enabling environment" and "independent, healthy and secure living capacity" need special attention.