Age-Friendly Hospital Environments: Qualitative Exploration of the Senior Citizens and Care Providers’ Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction

The aging population is increasing rapidly in Nepal with increase life expectancies. The burgeoning aging population, prevalence of frailty, and morbidity among them represent the need for health care and the use of hospital services. Age-friendly hospital environments, health services, and quality care can impact the health of senior citizens. Hence, this study explores the perception of senior citizens and their care providers towards age-friendly hospital environments.

Methods

Descriptive phenomenological research design was conducted at two tertiary-level hospitals in the Kathmandu district. Purposive sampling was used, and 28 participants were included. Data was collected by In-depth interview using semi-structured guidelines in Nepali Language. Data was analyzed following Colaizzi's 7-steps of qualitative data analysis. method.

Results

Four main themes were extracted were need to access healthcare facilities, the expansion of age-friendly hospital services, focus on the age-friendly physical environment, information, education, and communication in an age-appropriate manner. Participants expected for the availability of transportation facilities, affordable/free hospital services, priority, and prompt services with adequate facilities. Additionally, continuous provision of care providers, a separate billing counter with an advance payment system, timely information, and a separate geriatric ward/well-managed OPD with age-friendly physical infrastructure, including warm, peaceful, greenery space with religious and spiritual support were essential to the age-friendly environment.

Conclusions

This study highlights the need to implement and promote elderly-friendly hospital policies, infrastructures, and age-sensitive approaches to improve the well-being of senior citizens.