Factors associated with the quality of life of Chinese parents who have lost their only child

Abstract

This study used the three-level EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L) to assess the quality of life (QOL) of Chinese Shidu parents (who have lost their only child) and conducted an in-depth investigation into the factors affecting their QOL using non-parametric tests and the Tobit regression model. A total of 651 Shidu parents were enrolled in this study. The questionnaire included a general information survey, the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15), the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), and the three-level EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L). The results revealed that approximately 60% of Shidu parents reported no problems in all five dimensions. Pain and discomfort were the most frequently reported problems among Shidu parents, affecting 23.35% of participants. The Tobit regression model revealed that GDS-15 scores, marital status, education, and self-reported health status were significantly associated with EQ-5D scores. Additionally, SSRS scores, GDS-15 scores, and self-reported health status were significantly associated with EQ-VAS scores. Based on the study's findings, relevant recommendations were proposed.