earticle

영어

This study investigated factors that affect stress recognition, depression, suicidal thoughts and health-related quality of life for diabetics over 50 years of age. Five hundred one diabetics were surveyed who participated in the 4th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009. The data were analyzed with multiple regression analysis and Structural Equation Model to determine the factors. The results are as follows. Men, older and lower income groups, those not involved in economic activities, smokers, and drinkers showed a lower quality of life (p＜0.001). There was no correlation with moderate-intensity exercise. Stress recognition (t=-4.229, p＜0.001), depression (t=-2.156, p＜0.05), and suicidal thoughts (t=-3.274, p＜0.001) had significant effects on the quality of life (p ＜0.001, R²=0.25). The most important of these factors is stress. Being diagnosed as a diabetic changes the lives of patients, who come under stress from controlling their blood sugar level. Societal support should be developed to help patients cope with the challenges of diabetes.