Many definitions of quality of life fail to explore theoretical or philosophical issues. Ruta and Garratt (1994) state that in “trying to arrive at a useful definition of quality of life very few researchers have appreciated the need to distinguish the factors necessary to sustain life, that enhance or impair the enjoyment of living, from whatever it is that we stay alive for”. A clear ‘philosophy of human life’ and a theoretical framework may aid researchers in their understanding and conceptualisation of quality of life.