Quality of Life of Iranian Elderly Using the Leipad Questionnaire: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Publisher



Isfahani P¹ ; Sanchooli S¹ ; Sarani M² ; Poodineh Moghadam M³ ; Bazi A⁴ ; Arefnezhad M⁵ ; Corani Bahador R⁶ ; Afshari M⁷ Show Affiliations
Source: Discover Social Science and Health Published:2025

Abstract

Background and aim: The quality of life (QoL) of the elderly can be easily threatened due to their special characteristics and needs. Various questionnaires have been developed to measure QoL. One of the most well-known and widely used questionnaires is LEIPAD. The abbreviation LEIPAD originates from the collaboration of institutions in Leiden (the Netherlands) and Padua (Italy). The purpose of this study was to determine the QoL of Iranian elderly people using the LEIPAD questionnaire. Method: This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis. All published articles on the QoL of the elderly were identified using five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, and Magiran) and the Google Scholar search engine and were assessed for quality. The search was limited to articles published until 20 March 2025. The screening process, article selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were all conducted independently by two authors, with any disagreements resolved through consultation. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the I2 statistic and Cochran's Q test. Subgroup analysis based on the study location, QoL Dimensions, and setting was performed. The relationship between QoL of the Iranian elderly and publication year and sample size was evaluated using meta-regression. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and the Egger test. Finally, 20 articles were analyzed using CMA software. Findings Based on the random-effects model, the average QoL of the Iranian elderly as measured by LEIPAD is 58.70 (52.31–65.09; 95% CI). The highest average is reported in Kerman city in 2013 at 90.30 (86.94–93.65; 95% CI), and the lowest average is reported in Tehran city in 2017 at 27.88 (26.57–29.18; 95% CI). The self-care dimension had the highest average score (13.32 (10.44–16.19)), and the sexual functioning scale had the lowest average score (2.31 (1.41–3.21)). Moreover, sample size and year were significantly correlated with QoL (P < 0.05). Publication bias for the QoL of Iranian elderly was not significant. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the findings. Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal that the QoL among the elderly population in Iran is assessed as average. This outcome highlights a significant concern, as the elderly demographic is particularly vulnerable and often faces unique challenges that can affect their overall well-being. Therefore, addressing the average QoL reported among Iranian elderly individuals requires a multifaceted approach involving policy reforms, resource allocation, community support, ongoing evaluation, and professional training. By taking these steps, health authorities can significantly improve the quality of life for this vulnerable demographic. © The Author(s) 2025.