Growing elderly population prompts calls for dedicated healthcare centres, enhanced protections

AMMAN — Efforts to enhance services for the elderly are becoming increasingly crucial, as the elderly population is set to reach 8.6 per cent of the world’s population by 2030, according to experts. 

President of the National Centre for Family Affairs Mohammad Miqdadi said that by the end of 2050, people above 60 years old are projected to constitute 15.8 per cent of the population, Al Mamlaka TV reported. 

In light of this anticipated demographic shift, experts are calling for the establishment of specialised healthcare centres, led by geriatric physicians, to cater to the needs of the elderly. Furthermore, experts are calling for better integration of the elderly into social and cultural life, encouraging them to utilise their free time for personal growth and skills acquisition. 

In 2021, Jordan witnessed the introduction of Elderly Care Bylaw No. (97), aimed at safeguarding the rights of the elderly. However, the National Centre for Human Rights’ (NCHR) annual report highlighted the absence of a specific law protecting the rights of the elderly, and a lack of provisions to hold children accountable for negligence in fulfilling their economic, social and healthcare obligations towards their parents and caregivers. 

The NCHR called for a dedicated law protecting the rights of the elderly to be enacted urgently, as well as establishment of healthcare centres staffed by geriatric specialists.

Family counsellor Maha Obaideen told The Jordan Times that the establishment of a specialised training institute for geriatric care, equipped with qualified specialists, is crucial for the well-being of the elderly. 

Such centres can provide tailored medical care and support for the unique needs of this group, said Obaideen. 

“Offering comprehensive, free home services for the elderly is also a must,” Obaideen added. 

It is also necessary to address the psychological and emotional well-being of older adults, she said. 

Sociologist Hussein Khuzai told The Jordan Times that providing adequate mental health support and tailored counselling services to meet the unique needs of the elderly is “crucial”. 

Khuzai emphasised the importance of promoting self-esteem, autonomy and a sense of purpose among older adults while addressing potential feelings of isolation, loneliness and anxiety.

“Integrating the elderly into social and cultural life fosters a sense of purpose and enhances their quality of life,” Khuzai noted.