# Influence of Self-Care on the Quality of Life of Elderly People with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases: A Systematic Review

## TL;DR

This review finds that self-care programs, especially those led by nurses and using multiple approaches, improve the quality of life for elderly people with chronic diseases.

## Contribution

The study systematically evaluates the effectiveness of various self-care models for older adults with chronic non-communicable diseases.

## Key findings

- Multicomponent and continuous self-care interventions improved physical and psychological quality of life in older adults.
- Digital health strategies enhanced monitoring and engagement but were less effective for those with sensory or literacy challenges.
- Nurse-led and person-centered care models were most effective in promoting autonomy and treatment adherence.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Self-care is a cornerstone of healthy aging and chronic disease management; however, evidence on the most effective intervention models for improving quality of life in older adults with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remains fragmented. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of self-care interventions in promoting quality of life and health outcomes in older adults with NCDs. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251040613). Randomized and non-randomized clinical trials published between 2019 and 2024 were retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost. Eligible studies included adults aged ≥60 years with NCDs receiving self-care interventions. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were independently performed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Results: Twenty-nine studies involving 7241 older adults were included. Self-care interventions comprised nurse-led educational programs, digital health strategies, community- and peer-based approaches, and person-centered care models. Multicomponent and continuous interventions demonstrated consistent improvements in physical and psychological domains of quality of life, self-efficacy, autonomy, symptom management, and treatment adherence. Digital interventions enhanced monitoring and engagement, although their effectiveness varied according to sensory and health literacy limitations. Conclusions: Structured, person-centered, and nurse-led self-care interventions are effective in improving quality of life and autonomy among older adults with NCDs. These findings support their integration into primary and community-based care, reinforcing their relevance for clinical practice, care planning, and the development of assistive and educational strategies in aging care.