How well do we know our own health? Better than we might think if new research is to be understood.
An older person’s perceptions about their own health – or health-related quality of life (HRQoL) – can be valuable when assessing the risk of death or adverse health events, according to four studies from the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine.
The most recent study found that, when compared to those who reported a high HRQoL, people who reported a decline in HRQoL tracked over five years were 51 per cent more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. Analysing the data from 16,871 participants aged over 70, researchers found that 67 per cent consistently reported high HRQoL, 13 per cent intermediate, 14 per cent declining, and seven per cent low.
Higher initial physical HRQoL was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and death, while higher initial mental HRQoL was associated with lower risks of cognitive decline and dementia.
According to the lead researcher, PhD candidate Aung Zaw Zaw Phyo, this is the first time that scientists have established a link between declining physical HRQoL and risk of cardiovascular disease.
“The studies indicate that self-reported HRQoL could be used to supplement objective measures, such as weight, blood pressure and cholesterol in outpatient health assessments and care.
“Our research strengthens the importance of HRQoL as a predictive measure of cardiovascular disease, dementia, cognitive decline and deaths among older adults living independently in later life,” he said.
So, if Mum or Dad are saying they’re not feeling as healthy as they used to, it might be a good idea to keep an eye on them – just in case.
