Functional Independence and Quality of Life among Retirees

Geriatric population is in constant rise throughout the world. They are prone to develop disabilities, comorbidity, and frailty. This study aimed to determine the relationship between functional independence and quality of life among retirees. This study is a cross-sectional study conducted based on the top 3 most populated barangays in Cagayan de Oro City with 306 retired geriatrics as the respondents. A self-constructed questionnaire was used to determine the demographic characteristics, World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire was used to measure quality of life, and a modified Outcome and Assessment Information Set-B was used to measure physical function, activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. The researchers personally distributed the questionnaires to the respondents and measured their functional independence with the help of a registered Physical Therapist. Findings showed that complete retirement resulted in an increase of difficulties related with mobility and daily activities, an increase in illness conditions, and decline in mental health resulting to dependence on their family for assistance. Results also showed that the higher the respondent’s financial capacity and ability to function independently, the better is their quality of life. Keywords: Geriatric retiree, functional independence, physiological aging, quality of life