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Rezaeipandari H, Sadeghi R. Quality of Life of Older Adults Supported by a Government Welfare Foundation: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study in Yazd City, Iran. Iran J Health Sci 2026; 14 (2) :153-168
URL: http://jhs.mazums.ac.ir/article-1-1106-fa.html

Background and Purpose: As the global population ages, the quality of life (QoL) of older adults has become a major public health and social policy concern, particularly among socioeconomically vulnerable groups supported by governmental welfare institutions. In Iran, limited evidence exists on how older adults perceive their QoL in the context of state-provided welfare services. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of older adults supported by a government welfare foundation regarding their QoL in Yazd City, Iran. 
Materials and Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 older adults receiving support from a government welfare foundation in Yazd City. Data were analyzed using Zhang’s approach. 
Results: The analysis generated 674 initial codes, which were grouped into 17 subcategories and further condensed into seven main categories. The key dimensions of QoL included life satisfaction, health, economic security, environmental conditions, access to the Foundation, perceived services provided, and unmet needs and expectations.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that while welfare support alleviates material hardship, it alone is insufficient to meaningfully enhance older adults’ QoL. Improving well-being requires a shift toward person-centered, integrated models of care that address psychosocial needs, social connectedness, dignity, and financial assistance. For Foundations and policymakers, investing in community-based and preventive social and mental health interventions is essential. Such reorientation can lead to more sustainable and impactful welfare policies amid rapid population aging.