The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Commitment to Elderly Care
The Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to caring for the elderly, recognizing them as an important segment of society. This is achieved through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development Numerous steps have been taken to enhance the care provided to them, including enacting laws and regulations that protect their rights and ensure them a dignified life. Additionally, various health and social services have been introduced. Among the programs offered by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development is the facilitation of elderly access to all necessary services under one roof, contributing to improved quality of life and ensuring they receive the necessary support. Elderly Services in Government Hospitals:- Acute Care at Salmaniya Medical Complex: Includes treatment of emergency cases such as infections, strokes, and fractures.
- Psychiatric Care for the Elderly at the Psychiatric Hospital: Includes treatment for mental health conditions such as dementia and depression.
- Long-Term Care at Muharraq Geriatric Hospital: Dedicated to patients requiring 24/7 nursing care.
- Rehabilitation and Occupational Therapy: Provided at the Ibrahim Khalil Kanoo Health and Social Center for patients suffering from strokes, fractures, or multiple chronic illnesses.
- Educational Programs for Home Caregivers: Aimed at educating caregivers on how to care for elderly patients admitted to rehabilitation centers and hospitals.
- Outpatient Physiotherapy: Available at Salmaniya Medical Complex to help elderly patients improve mobility and physical abilities.
- Follow-up for Patients with Chronic Diseases: Provided at outpatient clinics across various medical specialties to ensure their health, psychological, and professional needs are met.
- Social Assessment for the Elderly and Caregivers: Includes providing necessary guidance and advice, as well as coordinating with relevant entities in the Kingdom, such as the Ministry of Social Development and charitable organizations, to offer the required support.
- Nutritional Assessment by Dietitians: Ensures appropriate dietary treatment to improve the health condition of the elderly.
- Coordination with Primary Care Centers: Offers home nursing services through mobile units and provides essential supplies for elderly home care.
An application for long-term admission and healthcare can be submitted by the elderly person themselves or a family member (guardian, with family consent) at one of the government hospitals. The process includes:
- A specialist doctor’s assessment of the patient.
- Conducting required medical tests and reviewing the results.
- Obtaining the patient’s consent if they are aware and capable of making decisions.
- Preparing a social report on the case to determine necessary needs and services.
Telemedicine services, launched by primary healthcare centers in Bahrain, are a modern digital initiative aimed at improving healthcare quality and accessibility, particularly considering technological advancements and health challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
This service provides remote medical consultations, reducing the need for physical visits to healthcare centers unless necessary. It is an ideal solution for the elderly, especially as their numbers and healthcare needs increase. Measures are also in place to help them overcome technical challenges and make the most of the service.
Benefits of Telemedicine for the Elderly:-
Easier Access to Healthcare:
- Some elderly individuals face mobility difficulties due to aging or chronic illnesses, making telemedicine a convenient option that saves them time and effort.
-
Regular Monitoring of Chronic Conditions:
- This service allows elderly patients suffering from conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease to receive regular medical consultations without needing to visit healthcare centers or hospitals.
-
Reduced Risk of Infection:
- Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to infectious diseases due to weakened immune systems. Telemedicine minimizes their exposure to infections in crowded places.
-
Psychological Comfort:
- Receiving medical consultations from home provides elderly individuals with a sense of comfort and security, especially if they have mobility difficulties.
-
Need for Direct Medical Examinations:
- In some cases, clinical or laboratory tests may be necessary and cannot be conducted remotely. Coordination is made for healthcare center visits or mobile clinics to visit their homes.
- Awareness: Educating the elderly on the importance of the service and how to use it.
- Technical Support: Helping them download applications or use online platforms.
- Coordination with Caregivers: Family members or caregivers can assist the elderly in scheduling appointments and making calls through the unified contact number for primary healthcare centers: 80007000.
