Effect of Antihypertensive Drugs on Quality of Life in Elderly Patients

The use of drugs to increase human happiness and to improve the quality of life physically, mentally and socioeconomically is a serious matter of concern. Chronic disabling conditions become common in old age and affect the quality of life. Quality of life (QOL) is an important measure of health care, which measures the gap between expectations and achievements. Effect of Drug use on quality of life in elderly Indian population with hypertension was studied using Mc Master Health Index. The study population was divided into test group (hypertensive patients on regular treatment) and control group (Not on any treatment or on treatment for less than 3 months). All three parameters of QOL namely physical, emotional and social were studied using Mc Master Health Index questionnaire. The results were statistically compared using ANOVA and chi square. Our results point toward better overall QOL in patients on regular treatment.