Quality of life can mean a lot of things, but for the most part, the quality of ones life has a lot to do with personal goals and the ability to achieve them. There are numerous factors that influence personal goals. Some people dream of living in a beautiful home. Others strive for achievement in service to others, such as teachers and people who join organizations like the Peace Corp. The tools that affect quality of life also vary, but they have one common denominator - health.

Good health has economic divides. It is common knowledge that eating healthy foods and exercising will not only extend your lifespan, but will also maintain its physical quality. However, the economically challenged often cannot afford to eat healthy. Fruits and vegetables are healthier than fast food, but are also more expensive. And most people with low incomes cannot afford to join a gym to exercise.

Regular doctor visits can alert a person to areas of their lifestyle that need adjustment in advance of illness. With today’s health care debate still on the political hot list, the economics of health care cannot be overlooked when considering overall quality of life issues. Medical care is reserved for those who can afford health insurance premiums, or have it provided by their employers. As unemployment continues to plague the US economy, more people are losing access to medical care. Over time, the lack of health care can lead to illness that can crush quality of life. Strokes can be treated and even prevented in some cases. The same is true for heart disease. Cancer, if caught in its early stages, is not only treatable, but can mean the difference between life and death.

If there is a single factor that affects quality of life, it is financial resources. People who have to work two or three jobs just to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads are more likely to suffer from stress-related issues, which can include both physical as well as emotional problems. Life is by no means ideal for the wealthy, but money can buy many of the things needed to raise the quality of a person’s life. Medical care, better eating habits, exercise, and reduced stress brought on by financial struggles, are all reduced by adequate financial resources. And those factors have a direct influence on an individual’s quality of life.