| Abstract [eng] |
Relevance of the Study. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have emphasized that, in the treatment of schizophrenia, it is not only the control of psychiatric symptoms that is important, but also quality of life and social functioning. It has been found that the living environment can significantly influence these factors. Research data on the impact of different housing arrangements on quality of life are not conclusive. Some indicate that the quality of life for patients living in care facilities can improve significantly (1), although other authors note that the institutional environment may limit residents’ independence and social connections (2,3). Meanwhile, patients 6 living independently or with relatives more often demonstrate better psychosocial functioning and greater life satisfaction (4). In Lithuania, there is a lack of data on the influence of the living environment on the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia and to compare it between those living in social care homes and those living in their own homes. Research objectives: 1. To assess the overall quality of life of patients with schizophrenia living in different types of housing. 2. To compare the results of individual quality of life dimensions between patients living in residential care institutions and those living in their own homes. 3. To determine the associations between quality of life indicators and sociodemographic factors. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 60 patients, including 29 individuals living in their own homes and 31 residing in social care institutions. Inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of schizophrenia according to the tenth revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, a Global Assessment of Functioning scale score of ≤ 40, and the ability to provide informed consent. Quality of life was assessed using the 36- Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire, and data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software programs. Results. Patients in social care homes demonstrated significantly better quality of life in psychosocial domains, including social functioning (p < 0.001), role limitations due to emotional (p = 0.006) and physical problems (p = 0.037), general health (p = 0.017), vitality (p = 0.017), and mental health (p = 0.015). The Mental Component Summary was also significantly higher (p = 0.003). No significant differences were found in physical health domains (p > 0.05). Age showed weak but significant associations with social functioning (p = 0.027) and the mental health component (p = 0.048). Participation was not associated with quality of life (p > 0.05). Regression analysis showed that housing type was a significant predictor of mental health (p = 0.018). Conclusions. Quality of life in patients with schizophrenia is associated with living environment, with social care homes linked to better psychosocial outcomes. Sociodemographic factors showed limited influence, while housing type was the main factor related to mental health. |
