Title

HEALTHCARE ACCESS IN RELATION TO THE PERCEIVED QUALITY OF LIFE OF ELDERLY POPULATION

Author(s)

Perales, Kira Mae D.

Peralta, Alick Josh N.

Ratilla, Isabella Cassandra S.

Rosal, Suzanne Mae O. Sarzuelo, Sofia Loren L.

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Adlao, Louie Jay O.

Duyag, Merasol O.

Santos, Susan N.

Go, Maebil Marie B.

Year

2025

Abstract

As the elderly population continues to grow, ensuring timely and appropriate healthcare access is vital to maintaining their quality of life. In the Philippines, despite the Universal Health Care Act, older adults especially in underserved communities still encounter significant barriers. This study examines the relationship between healthcare access and perceived quality of life among the elderly in selected barangays of Ozamiz City, aiming to highlight the importance of accessible healthcare. Anchored in Pender’s Health Promotion Model, which underscores the importance of proactive health behaviors and environmental interaction in achieving overall well-being. A descriptive-correlational quantitative design was used. Stratified random sampling was applied to select 300 elderly respondents, and data were gathered using validated researcher-made questionnaires. Statistical analysis revealed that respondents generally rated both their healthcare access and perceived quality of life as 'Very Good,' suggesting that the local healthcare system is effectively addressing the specific needs of the elderly, thereby contributing to improved health outcomes and overall quality of life. Among the five dimensions, healthcare access affordability and accommodation emerged as the most significant determinants influencing multiple domains of perceived quality of life, emphasizing that financial capacity and service adaptability are primary factors in elderly well-being. Specifically, healthcare access affordability emerged as the sole significant predictor of overall perceived quality of life among the elderly in this study. This study adds to knowledge on elderly healthcare by identifying key access factors and can guide policymakers in designing inclusive, evidence-based interventions for aging populations.
Keywords:

Keywords

affordability, elderly, healthcare access, perceived quality of life