Abstract: adults with and without displacement experience in World War II as a
biographical feature. The study aims to identify predictors of current QoL and
to consider the relevant aspects of QoL for older people. Methods: In a survey of n = 420 persons (equally distributed to
displaced and nondisplaced group) QoL, socio-demographic, age-related,
psychological, psychosocial and trauma-related variables were assessed.
Subjective QoL in old age was predicted by these variables. To validate these
quantitative results, qualitative interviews (n = 130 from the total sample)
were conducted in which the participants rated their current QoL on a scale
(1–5) and subsequently described it verbally. Results: Participants rated their recent QoL as good. Social
integration, depression, and attitudes towards ageing proved to be significant
predictors of QoL. Socio-demographic variables did not significantly predict of
QoL. Traumatic experiences during World War II have no direct effects on the
QoL in old age. Qualitative analyses confirm the results and show that QoL is
characterized by topics of health, current living situation, attitudes, leisure
activities and social contacts. Conclusion: In addition to known predictors of QoL, attitude towards
ageing with its subscales made a contribution to predict QoL. Qualitative
interviews showed that QoL is perceived and described in a differentiated
fashion by older adults. The assessment of recent QoL is based on current needs
and living conditions. The verbal descriptions of QoL also contained statements
about attitudes toward ageing and positive mental attitudes while ageing.
Keywords: Quality of life, older adults, flight/displacement, qualitative, quantitative
