Developing a progress assessment model for age friendly primary health care initiatives

In response to the significant increase in the global aging population, countries have increasingly prioritized Age-Friendly Primary Health Care (AFPHC) to address the unique needs of older adults. This study aims to develop a comprehensive model for assessing the progress of PHC systems in achieving the goals of an elderly-centered services.

A qualitative study design was utilized to develop the progress assessment model for AFPHC initiatives. This process involved a literature review (academic databases and manual search), semi-structured interviews, an expert panel discussion, and the Delphi technique for achieving consensus on the final model. Participants in the semi-structured interviews were selected based on specific inclusion criteria, which required professionals and stakeholders to have a minimum of two years of experience in care for older adults and active involvement in PHC. Additionally, older adults with a university education who had accessed PHC services in Iran at least three times were included. The expert panel was composed of multidisciplinary professionals who met similar criteria, ensuring a diverse and informed perspective.

According to literature review results, 16 main domains and 28 sub-domains were identified. In the next step, through interviews, 7 main domains and 71 indicators were extracted. After summarizing the results of literature reviews, and interviews, and analyzing the results of the Delphi technique, the initial model with 7 main domains, including policymaking and planning processes related to older adults, principles of respect and interaction with older adults, education for older adults, principles of care and provision of services to older adults, access to PHC facilities, physical environment, specialized facilities and equipment, and human resources, was finalized along with the 60 indicators.

The developed model for assessing progress of AFPHC Initiatives offers a comprehensive framework by focusing on key domains and indicators tailored to the needs of older adults. This model serves as a practical tool for assessing the progress of AFPHC, facilitating improvements in the quality and accessibility of PHC services for older adults.