Facilitators and barriers to participation in the age-friendly center; informing heterogeneous older adults

Abstract

Introduction: Along with the growing older adults, and the significance of meeting their needs, it is necessary to employ a variety of care models. Considering the participation of older adults in health and social programs is typically lower than expected. Therefore, an explanation of barriers and facilitators of older adults’ participation in age-friendly centers was conducted. Methods: In this research, we used a conventional content analysis approach. The key elements of Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) were applied to design the study. In-depth and semi-structured interviews were carried out with potential and eligible participants. We used purposeful sampling (with a maximum variety of fifteen older adults and related health care employed professionals in Hashtrud, East Azerbaijan, Iran) in the current study. The data were analyzed using the MAXQDA 10 software. Results: Potential barriers and facilitators of older adults’ participation in age-friendly centers were categorized into two main themes including, facilitators for the attendance of older adults, and obstacles to the participation of older adults. Consequently, the sub-themes related to the facilitators of the presence of older adults in the age-friendly centers were: informing and announcing to the public, involving specialized personnel, advocacy and improving intersectional cooperation, provision of physical and welfare environment, utilizing the capabilities of older adults in programs, performing Programs based on the aging’s interests and conditions, using incentives and motivational factors, performing educational programs. Also, the subcategories related to the obstacles to the attendance of older adults in the age-friendly centers were: personal and family barriers, cultural barriers, structural barriers, and functional barriers. Conclusion: To achieve the desired result and increase the participation of older people in day centers, it is easier, cheaper, and more accessible to facilitate their attendance. In this regard, changing the procedure of current programs, taking advantage of existing opportunities, and involving experts and interested personnel in the field of aging are important issues. Keywords: Older adults; age-friendly centers; barriers and facilitators