Evaluation of Elderly Health Program in Health Centers of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Abstract Introduction and objective Today, the phenomenon of aging with all psychological, social, cultural and economic dimensions is one of the serious and challenging issues for families and countries. In order to improve the quality of care and thus improve the health of the elderly. Methods: The present study is a multiple study. First, a Scoping Review of the features of the Elderly Health Care Program in primary health care worldwide was conducted in the Scopus and web of science databases, PubMed. In the next step, using a semi-structured interview method, the views of three groups of professionals, service providers and recipients regarding the weaknesses and strengths and opportunities and threats of the elderly health program were identified. Then, by holding two sessions of the experts' meeting, the proposed solutions for modifying the program were determined Results: 42 articles related to the topic of content identification and analysis were categorized in the form of goals, components and content of other countries' programs, as well as challenges and strategies for program modification. Then, a total of 38 semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders. The data were first analyzed using content analysis method and manually in SWAT format, and in the second stage, the strengths and weaknesses of the program were classified within the control levers of the health system, including organization, financing, behavior, rules and payment system. Program threats and threats were categorized using the STEEP framework, including social, technological, economic, environmental, and political issues. Finally, 15 selected solutions were proposed to modify the elderly health program. Conclusion: Having a strong evaluation system that provides officials with timely and sufficient information about the evaluation of the program plays a role in the proper management of resources and the achievement of macro health goals. To achieve these goals, it is necessary that with the participation of the elderly, families and carers and inter-sectoral cooperation, while strengthening the existing facilities and emphasizing the Iranian-Islamic culture, which always respects and pays attention to the elderly is a high value. , To provide appropriate and responsive to the different and diverse needs of the elderly, so that they can continue to live with maximum quality and independence with the right to choose and freedom. Key words: Elderly, Elderly Health Program, Evaluation