Older adult care in Lebanon: towards stronger and sustainable reforms.
We assessed elderly care in Lebanon through direct observation and review of the literature and legislation with the aim of drawing attention to the current situation and the need for improvement, and providing suggestions to address the problems. The weaknesses of elderly care in Lebanon and obstacles to reform include the stigma of age, an inefficient health care system, a lack of geriatric specialists and social/volunteer services, and inadequacies in nursing homes. Countering the negative perception of ageing, promoting social welfare, refurbishing nursing homes and empowering volunteer services are needed to improve the lives and care of the elderly. Sustained initiatives by governmental agencies, physicians, volunteer services and the community are essential. Adequate funding is also imperative.
Chemali
Z
Z
Division of Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. zelchemali@partners.org
Chahine
L M
LM
Sibai
A M
AM
D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D005380:Financing, Government / Q000458:organization & administration; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000458:organization & administration; D018166:Health Care Reform / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006287:Health Planning Guidelines; D006302:Health Services Research; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration*; D019456:Health Transition; D006801:Humans; D007861:Lebanon; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009735:Nursing Homes / Q000458:organization & administration; D011287:Prejudice; D013240:Stereotyping; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration; D014838:Volunteers / Q000458:organization & administration