Evaluation of bio-psycho-social and socio-cultural problems of Syrian elderly living in Turkey

Abstract

Background: Older persons are among the vulnerable groups most affected by war and migration due to physical weakness, illness, social environment, and cultural adaptation difficulties. Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the economic, biopsychosocial, and socio-cultural problems of the older Syrians living in Turkey. Methods: Convergent mixed design was used within the scope of the research. For the qualitative phase of the research, 19 older persons migrants were interviewed. A semi-structured interview form was used to collect data in the interviews. For the quantitative phase of the research, 432 participants were reached. In order to collect data, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and Socio-cultural Adaptation Scale (SCAS-R) were used together with the demographic information form. Results: The mean age of the participants was 66.2 ± 7.10 (Min: 60; Max: 91), the majority (87%) between the ages of 60 to 74 and 53.2% were male. The mean SCAS-R score of the older Syrians was 2.48 ± 0.88 (Min: 1; Max: 5) and the mean GDS-15 was 2.63 ± 3.84 (Min: 0; Max: 15). About 22.7% of older Syrian participants had mild or severe depressive symptoms. Experienced traumatic events, changing economic situation, and family relationships affected both physical and mental health of the older persons. The socio-cultural adaptation of the older persons was affected by language, temporary protection, and exposure to exclusion. The Older Syrians, who lacked information on social services, were experiencing problems with nutrition, clothing, bill payment, and rent due to economic problems. However, they mostly did not want to return to Syria because their living order in Syria was deteriorating and they were afraid. Conclusion: Syrian elderly immigrants living in Turkey have biopsychosocial, economic, and cultural problems. National and international support programs and policies should be developed for elderly Syrian refugees who are expected to live in Turkey unless a safe living environment is provided.

Assessment of frailty, daily life activities, and nutrition of elderly immigrants: A household based cross-sectional study

“…In a study conducted with Syrian migrant elderly people in Türkiye, it was shown that traumatic events, economic uncertainty, and family relationships affect the mental and physical health of the elderly. [50]…”

“…In a study conducted with Syrian migrant elderly people in Türkiye, it was shown that traumatic events, economic uncertainty, and family relationships affect the mental and physical health of the elderly. [50] In the research group, 75.5% of the participants had a BMI ≥ 25, 47% had walking and balance problems, 29.1% had a history of falls in the last year, 82.8% had a chronic disease (Hypertension, Diabetes, Coronary Artery Disease, lumbar hernia, respiratory system diseases), and 43% had polypharmacy (regular use of ≥ 4 drugs per day). The BMI values obtained in migrant elderly people were unexpectedly high.…”

By the numbers and in their own words: A mixed methods study of unmet needs and humanitarian inclusion of older Syrian refugees in Lebanon

“…While multiple studies have been conducted with older Syrian refugees (OSRs) in Lebanon [14,[23][24][25][26], and other neighboring countries [27][28][29][30], an extensive needs assessment with a focus on their reports and perceptions of inclusion is missing. This study guided by a human-rights lens is looking at a population with a myriad of intersecting vulnerabilities to emphasize its right to access humanitarian assistance.…”

By the numbers and in their own words: A mixed methods study of unmet needs and humanitarian inclusion of older Syrian refugees in Lebanon

“…While multiple studies have been conducted with older Syrian refugees (OSRs) in Lebanon [ 14 , 23 – 26 ], and other neighboring countries [ 27 – 30 ], an extensive needs assessment with a focus on their reports and perceptions of inclusion is missing. This study guided by a human-rights lens is looking at a population with a myriad of intersecting vulnerabilities to emphasize its right to access humanitarian assistance.…”