Influence of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics on the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia

Abstract

OBJECTIVE  Evaluating the quality of life of Portuguese patients with schizophrenia and linking it to sociodemographic and clinical aspects.

METHOD  A quantitative cross-sectional study carried out with individuals affected by schizophrenia, living in the entire continental territory of Portugal, through application of a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire and the Quality of Life Scale short version (QLS₇PT). Parametric and non-parametric tests were performed to evaluate the correlation between variables.

RESULTS  The sample consisted of 282 participants. The results point to a better quality of life for individuals living in autonomous residences or with their parents, who are employed/students, who have had the disorder for less time and are younger, who have completed the 12^th grade of schooling and who are not medicated with first-generation neuroleptics.

CONCLUSION  The results indicate that some sociodemographic and clinical characteristics influence the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia and should be considered in the patient evaluation and in planning appropriate and effective strategies for their psychosocial rehabilitation.

Descriptors Schizophrenia; Quality of Life; Population Characteristics; Psychiatric Nursing