Dubai: The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is looking at expanding geriatric care. Quoting stastitics on the geriatric population, Dr Tamer Farid, geriatrician at the DHA’s primary health care sector, said: “Population growth and the increase in life expectancy are important factors that will increase the number of elderly population and thus the focus has to be on healthy ageing. According to 2012 statistics, the population above the age of 60 years in Dubai is approximately 11,400. In the 1960s, life expectancy in the UAE was 53 years. Today, the average life expectancy in Dubai is 78 years for females and 75 for males and it is higher compared to some other Middle-Eastern countries. Therefore, the emphasis has to be on healthy ageing.”
Dr Farid advocated that patients should be aware of the concept of healthy ageing and should undergo regular yearly screenings as well as additional tests for osteoporosis, bone density etc so that they can easily treat their ailments with minimum complications. He added this helps them lead a better quality of life and become independent to the best extent possible.
Dr Farid said: “The DHA’s primary health care centres have several specialised clinics for geriatric patients. In 2012, the rehabilitation team conducted 175 home visits for 27 patients, in 2013, the team conducted 292 visits for 32 patients and in 2014, we conducted 550 visits for 60 patients.”
In addition to these services, the DHA also conducts a monthly Alzheimer’s support group and also has a 24/7 Alzheimer’s Helpline (056 3710077) that provides reliable information and support to caregivers, health care professionals and the public.
