Quality generally refers to a standard ascribed to something in good condition. Quality of life (QOL) refers to an individual’s perception of their overall satisfaction and fulfillment with their life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), QOL encompasses an individual’s subjective evaluation of their life concerning their goals, expectations, standards, cultural context, and values. It is influenced by various factors, including physical health, psychological well-being, level of independence, social relationships, personal beliefs, and environmental factors. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of subjective well-being, which includes factors such as happiness, life satisfaction, morals, self-esteem, self-concept, and sense of coherence, in determining QOL.

Health-related QOL (HRQOL) specifically focuses on an individual’s perception of their health and its impact on their daily functioning and social interactions. Additionally, individualized QOL (IQOL) recognizes that each person has unique priorities and values, emphasizing their sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with what they deem important in life. While traditional medical outcomes often center around curing diseases, there is an increasing emphasis on QOL as an outcome indicator.

In nursing practice, it is crucial to support individuals in achieving a life that aligns with their unique values and priorities, fostering a sense of accomplishment and overall QOL.

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