Developing a comprehensive model of home-based formal care for elderly adults in Iran: A study protocol

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Iran faces a rapidly aging population, necessitating a tailored home care model.
• Limited data exists on designing elderly home care in developing nations.
• Current Iranian health infrastructure prioritizes younger demographics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a formal, comprehensive home-based care model for elderly adults in Iran.
• To address the gap in understanding the multifaceted dimensions of elderly home care within the Iranian context.

Main Methods:

• A multi-method approach combining sequential explanatory mixed-methods, scoping review, triangulation, and Delphi study.
• Phase 1: Survey on caregiver dependence and qualitative interviews on care characteristics, challenges, and expectations.
• Phase 2: Scoping review of international home care models (organization, training, financing). Phase 3: Triangulation and Delphi study for model design and validation.

Main Results:

• The study will identify key components and challenges in Iranian elderly home care.
• International best practices in home care organization, caregiver training, and financing will be reviewed.
• A validated, context-specific home care model for Iranian elderly will be designed.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive home care model is crucial for improving elderly quality of life and caregiver satisfaction in Iran.
• This study will provide a foundational framework for elderly home care services in Iran.
• The developed model aims to enhance the health infrastructure's responsiveness to the aging demographic.