Qatar Launches National Ageing Survey To Enhance Quality Of Life For Elderly Citizens
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has embarked on a pivotal project to enhance the quality of life for the elderly in Qatar. This initiative, known as the National Ageing Survey, is a collaborative effort with the National Planning Council and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). Set to commence fieldwork from November 3, 2024, to January 31, 2025, this survey targets a comprehensive understanding of the health requirements and overall wellbeing of the country's senior citizens.
This survey is not just a data collection exercise; it is a strategic move towards creating a sustainable framework for eldercare. By visiting 1,808 participants, including Qatari nationals and residents aged 60 and above, the survey will gather vital statistics through home visits. These visits are meticulously planned, ensuring prior communication with each participant to facilitate a smooth and respectful data collection process.
The health assessment conducted during these home visits is thorough, encompassing biometric measurements like blood pressure and weight, alongside evaluations of hearing, lung function, physical, and cognitive abilities. Additionally, participants will provide insights into their health status and lifestyle choices through detailed questionnaires. This rich data pool is essential for tailoring healthcare services and policies specifically catered to the elderly.
Dr. Mohamed bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Programs at the Ministry of Public Health, has underscored the survey's importance in safeguarding the elderly's rights. "The survey aims to identify their health and social needs by developing a national database on the health of the elderly," he stated. This initiative is aligned with the National Health Strategy 2024-2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030, marking a significant step towards informed policy-making and strategic planning for elder care.
Saud Al Shammari, Assistant Director of the Department of Censuses, Surveys, and Statistical Methods at the National Planning Council, emphasized the precision and technological sophistication driving this survey. He assured, "through this survey, we aim to collect accurate and comprehensive data on the elderly using the latest tools and scientific techniques for data collection and analysis."
The commitment to privacy and confidentiality was also highlighted, ensuring that all collected data would be used exclusively for statistical analysis and policy formulation.Dr. Hanan Alyafei, a Senior Consultant in Home Care at HMC, pointed out the direct benefits of the survey in enhancing healthcare services for the elderly. With the Home Care Services team's involvement, there is a strong emphasis on leveraging this opportunity to elevate the standard of care provided to senior citizens in Qatar.
"The Home Care Services team will actively participate in the survey to maximize its benefits, especially given the team's extensive experience working with the elderly," Dr. Alyafei remarked.The survey execution team has undergone rigorous training, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), to ensure the highest standards in data collection and participant interaction. The Ministry has established a comprehensive outreach plan, including phone calls and text messages, to inform and engage potential participants ahead of the home visits.
As the survey's fieldwork approaches, the public is encouraged to support this commendable national initiative. For those seeking more information or wishing to inquire about the survey or its team, the Unified Health Sector Contact Centre is available at 16000.In conclusion, the National Ageing Survey represents a landmark effort in Qatar's commitment to its elderly population. Through detailed data collection and analysis, it aims to lay the foundation for more responsive, effective, and compassionate healthcare and social services for the elderly, aligning with broader national health and development goals.
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