Practical Uses of QOL

Question 1

Practical Uses of QOL Measures

Answer 1

• Identifying and prioritizing problems
• Facilitating communication
• Screening for hidden problems
• Facilitating shared clinical decision making
• Monitoring changes or responses to treatment

Question 2

Why measure HRQOL?

Answer 2

• see the impact of a chronic condition or disease

- objective measures don’t relate to functional capacity or well-being

Question 3

QOL Instruments Measure

Answer 3

• Body functions/Structures
• Individual Activities
• Societal Participation
• Facilitates treatment

Question 4

QOL as a Social Indicator

Answer 4

• happiness, satisfaction, and one’s overall sense of well-being

Question 5

Role of QOL Research and Practice

Answer 5

• May inform the development, implementation, and application of public policy
• It is applicable regardless of health condition, HOWEVER, over-generalization should be avoided!

Question 6

Motivation to Complete a QOL Tool

Answer 6

• Participants must be able to see benefit of data collection (self or others)
• Psychometric orientation – Construct and content validity
• A “real” need for a perspective
• Fishing expeditions discouraged!