Exploring Health-Related Needs of Elderly People (70+) at Home: A Qualitative Study From Switzerland

Abstract

Background: The elderly represents the fastest growing group in our population. Since there is a close relationship between the number of older people and health care expenditure, promoting healthy aging has become an important topic. However, it is essential to understand first the needs of this population in order to create suitable programs and activities. Methods: A qualitative design was used in this study to explore the subjective views of elderly people and to learn more about their health-related needs. A total of 12 participants were recruited using a consecutive sampling strategy. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed by employing a summarizing content analysis. Results: This study has identified 4 areas of health-related needs: Independence and autonomy, social security, structure in daily life and community and belonging, where all categories are interrelated and interact with one other. Conclusion: Focusing more on community-based approaches would support creating a conducive environment. Also, home visits undertaken by a specialized nurse focused on health risks and disabilities could be an adequate approach to support the elderly population in an efficient way and to offer targeted programs and activities.

The effects of changes in daily life due to the COVID‐19 pandemic on the depressive symptoms among community‐dwelling older adults in Korea

“…Older adults have less adaptability to new situations than other populations. Therefore, maintaining a sense of stability in daily life and living environment in old age is a fundamental issue in terms of the happiness and quality of life of older adults (Karma et al 2021). However, changes in the daily life of older adults due to the COVID-19 pandemic reduce their social contact or networks, eventually harming psychological health and increasing depression.…”

Quantitative Ultrasound and Bone Health in Elderly People, a Systematic Review

“…Ageing leads to an increased risk of fractures [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ] due to a decrease in bone strength, quality, and mass, which is called osteoporosis [ 5 ]. Osteoporosis produces an increase in frailty and in the risk of falling [ 5 ], with a consequent decrease in quality of life and high health expenses [ 1 , 3 ].…”