Quality of Life

What is quality of life?

The definition of quality of life is a rather ambiguous one, it can mean different things to different people.

Some of the main indicators of a good quality of life encompass the “person” as having good social interactions, (being able to engage with others), physical and emotional well-being, and having the ability to function as an individual while learning new things. It’s “the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual or group”.  So what does that really mean?

As an example, one person may define quality of life according to their wealth or position in society. They may feel that staying at expensive hotels, dinning at fine restaurants, or driving an expensive car defines a good quality of life. They may also enjoy playing golf, going to lunch (dinners or parties), planning and attending functions, or engaging in group events.  Others may measure quality of life by having good physical or emotional wellbeing, being independent, or by having a purpose in life or social well-being. They may enjoy the experience of being out in nature, gardening, music, hiking, reading, or painting.

The reality is that there is no right or wrong answer. Quality of life is subjective. Many people’s views (or thoughts) on quality of life change as they move through life. For example, when we are in our 20’s, quality of life may mean going out with friends to parties or events. In our 30’s quality of life may be focused on developing meaningful relationships and a career. In our 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, spending time with our families and children, going to our children’s (or grandchildren’s ) sports events or dance recitals may signify a good quality of life. These things bring us enjoyment.  With that said, I believe we have “core” values that follow us throughout our lives.

Understanding your core values and what quality of life means (to you) is imperative.  Life can change in an instant. It’s never too early to ask yourself “what is really important to me” if I (or when I) experience a physical illness, traumatic incident, or decline in health. Other questions to ponder include; what are my core beliefs about quality of life;  what type of treatment do I want (or not want); how will treatment affect my ability to function independently, and is that important to me?   Also ask yourself; how comfortable do I want to be and where do I want to be?   These are all important questions we need to ask ourselves.

Advance Care Directives are the key to making sure that your voice is heard, and that your choices are carried out. Having Advance Care Directives in place eliminates your family member’s having to make the difficult decisions at a time of crisis. For more detailed information on this topic, visit my blog on Advance Care Directives.