# Self-perceived quality of life, health, and physical activity among older adults: the roles of marital status and residence during the COVID-19 pandemic

## TL;DR

Older adults who are married or live in their own homes report better health and quality of life during the pandemic.

## Contribution

This study identifies the impact of marital status and residence on health and physical activity in older adults during the pandemic.

## Key findings

- Married or partnered older adults had higher physical activity and better health outcomes.
- Community-dwelling older adults scored better on most health and quality-of-life indicators.
- Social support and residential context are crucial for healthy aging during the pandemic.

## Abstract

To examine the associations between marital status, place of residence,
self-reported health status, quality of life, and physical activity among
older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This cross-sectional study enrolled 962 participants aged 65 and older,
surveyed between March 2020 and May 2023. Respondents were categorized
according to marital status (married/living with a partner, single,
divorced, widowed) and place of residence (own home vs nursing home).
Standardized instruments were used: the Short Form Health Survey-36 for
health status, the Personal Well-being Index for quality of life, and the
Croatian short version of the International Physical Activity
Questionnaire.

Respondents who were married or living with a partner reported significantly
higher levels of physical activity, better physical and mental health, and
greater life satisfaction than single, divorced, or widowed respondents
(P < 0.001). Community-dwelling
respondents scored significantly higher on most health and quality-of-life
indicators than nursing home residents, except for perceived future
security.

Marital status and living arrangements significantly affected the
self-perceived health, physical activity, and quality of life of older
adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results emphasize the importance of
social support and residential context in promoting healthy aging.