What does quality of life mean and who defines it? Kathie Snow notes that the only person qualified to comment on an individuals quality of life is the person living that life. Sometimes the best intentions interfere with an individual's quality of life, for example, numerous therapies and treatments to attempt to cure or limit a disability. At the end of the day, when lying on your deathbed, are you thankful for being able to walk and talk or are you thankful for your friends, family and those experiences you had and shared?