ABSTRACT

Objective: This study aimed to measure the levels of activity participation employing the Korean Activity Card Sort (K-ACS) and investigate the factors affecting quality of life of the elderly aged 65 or older in nursing facilities. Methods: From July 1 to August 31, 2021, self-report questionnaires were administered on 78 elderly people in nursing facilities in Seoul metropolitan area. Pearson correlations and multiple regressions were used to analyze relationships among subjects' levels of participation in activities, depression, self-efficacy, daily life performance abilities, and quality of life. Results: Results showed that levels of participation in total activities, IADL activities, leisure activities, and social activities were 27.8%, 26.9%, 36.5%, and 21.0% respectively. Total activities were highly correlated with IADL (r = .937, p < .01) and social activities (r = .858, p < .01). In addition, quality of life was affected by depression(r = -.514, p < .001) and self-efficacy(r = .266, p < .05). Conclusion: For successful aging of the elderly in nursing facilities, occupational therapists should establish a variety of activity programs and provide opportunities for the elderly to participate in the activities. This role of occupational therapists is expected to alleviate depression and increase self-efficacy and level of activity participation resulting in improvement of quality of life ultimately.