Evaluation of Quality of Life in Mothers of Children with Down Syndrome

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life and related factors in mothers of children with Down syndrome. Methods: The study method was correlation-survey (sectional). Sampling was based on the available population. The research population consisted of all mothers of children with Down syndrome referred to the Down Syndrome Center: out of them ۷۰ mothers of children with Down syndrome were randomly selected for study sample. Research tools were the WHO “quality of life” questionnaire, as well as a demographic and background information questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS-۱۶ software and ANOVA, multiple regression analysis and t-test. Results: The results showed a significant association of physical health and environmental health with the housing type (P<۰.۰۵). So that mothers living in private houses have higher physical and environmental health than those who live in rental houses. But, There were no significant relationship between the independent variables and the other subscales and total score of “quality of life” (P>۰.۰۵). Conclusion: People’s negative attitude toward some disabilities and limitations, society’s little information, inappropriate cultural, social, and economic conditions, and insufficient available resources can be the most important factors affecting the quality of life. It is recommended that the relevant organizations provide services and conditions for mothers of children with Down syndrome in order to improve their quality of life and health.

Keywords:

Quality of life , Mothers , Children with down syndrome