Quality of Life - GCSE Geography Definition

What is quality of life in geography?

In GCSE Geography, quality of life (QOL) is a concept that refers to the well-being of individuals and communities. This is different from the standard of living, which focuses on the wealth and material goods that people have. Quality of life focuses on whether people are healthy and happy. To do this, the measure takes into account several factors, including:

• health.

• access to employment.

• quality of housing.

• education.

• levels of crime and social unrest.

• recreation and leisure.

• social belonging.

• quality of the environment.

• access to services.

An indicator of development is the positive improvements to people's quality of life. These factors closely link and are not independent of each other. For instance, there is a connection between housing quality and job opportunities.