Time perspective and quality of life among HIV-infected patients in the context of HAART

Abstract

We explored associations between time perspective (TP) and quality of life (QOL) among HIV-infected patients. With the French validated version of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, we evaluated the TP of patients. A self-administered questionnaire gathered information about QOL (WHOQOL-HIV), TP, relationship with medical staff and self-reported side effects of HAART. Six scores of QOL—physical, psychological, social relationship, environment, patient independence and spirituality were used as dependent variables in the linear regressions to identify factors associated with QOL. The sample (n=72) for this study was recruited from a hospital department specialising in HIV care and consisted of 48 (67%) HIV-infected women and 24 (33%) HIV-infected men with a mean age of 42 years. Using hierarchical regression analysis adjusted on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics and co-factors, significant relationships were observed between the several TP orientations and an impaired physical, environmental QOL as well as level-of-independence QOL. Specific dimensions of QOL are influenced by specific orientations of TP, which provides information on self-perception and subjective evaluation of QOL. The TP construct provides keys to managing HIV infection in order to improve QOL.