Objectives: Because of the increasing population of the elderly, attention to their problems is one of the important issues of countries social policies and without knowledge of the basic needs and dimensions of the old age, planning toward mental and social well-being of this group is not possible. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the needs and dimensions according to articles published in journals between 2004 and 2013.

Methods & Materials: Based on the conceptual model of Hughes’ quality of life (1990), a structured study of dimensions and indicators of quality of life was performed on 62 available scientific research articles published over a period of 9 years.

Results: Results of this study indicated the prominent role of health status of the elderly in articles (100%). The concept of quality of life is a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional concept that does not include only physical aspects. Also, its assessment and understanding depends on various cultural, social, economic, and environmental factors. The least important factors were individual satisfaction and physical environmental factors (each with 11.3% effect). Most of the offered solutions to improve the quality of life in Iran were at the macro level and structural functions (69.35%); which can be used in the policies and planning and show a way to our planners and policymakers to improve and enhance the quality of life of the elderly.

Conclusion: Quality of life in Iranian elderly population is an important issue, which can be improved and promoted by considering all its dimensions and using interventional, educational, and supporting programs.