Table 3 Factor structure of the OPQOL derived from principal component analysis

Life overall

I look forward to things (3)

I enjoy my life overall (1)

Life gets me down (4)

I am happy much of the time (2)

I take life as it comes and make the best of things (22)

I feel lucky compared to most people (23)

Health

Pain affects my well-being (6)

My health restricts me looking after myself or my home (7)

I am healthy enough to get out and about (8)

I have a lot of physical energy (5)

I have a lot of control over the important things in my life (17)

Home and neighbourhood

I find my neighbourhood friendly (21)

I get pleasure from my home (20)

I feel safe where I live (18)

The local shops, services and facilities are good overall (19)

Independence, control over life, freedom

I have responsibilities to others that restrict my social or leisure activities (33)

I try to stay involved with things (31)

I have social or leisure activities/hobbies that I enjoy doing (30)

I am healthy enough to have my independence (14)

Financial circumstances

I have enough money to pay for household repairs or help needed in the house (27)

I have enough money to pay for household bills (26)

I can afford to buy what I want to (28)

Social relationship

I’d like more people to enjoy life with (12)

I have my children around which is important (13)

I would like more companionship or contact with other people (10)

Religion/culture

Religion, belief or philosophy is important to my quality of life (34)

Cultural/religious events/festivals are important to my quality of life (35)

Psychological and emotional well-being

If my health limits social/ leisure activities, then I will compensate and find something else I can do (25)

I tend to look on the bright side (24)

I do paid or unpaid work or activities that give me a role in life (32)

I have someone who gives me love and affection (11)