Doha, Qatar: The field study of the National Aging Survey, conducted by the Ministry of Public Health (MOH) in collaboration with the National Planning Council and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), officially started today. Field work will continue until January 31, 2025 to provide the necessary information and comprehensive indicators regarding the health and needs of individuals aged 60 and over. This will be achieved through home visits to a sample of 1,808 people in this age group, including both citizens and residents.

Vice President of Long-Term Care, Rehabilitation and Geriatric Care at HMC and Director of the National Aging Research Project, Dr. Hanadi Al Hamad said: “The National Survey on Aging represents a pioneering step in Qatar’s ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of the elderly. By collecting comprehensive data on the health status of senior citizens and residents, helping to improve the healthcare services provided to them The survey also includes a comprehensive assessment of participants’ health and lifestyle patterns, with biometric measurements such as blood pressure, weight, hearing and lung function tests, as well as physical and cognitive ability tests. The survey questionnaire will also be filled out.”

Dr Al Hamad added: “Home visits are carried out by an expert, certified medical team consisting of members of the Ministry of Public Health, the National Planning Council and Hamad Medical Corporation. The team members are well trained and experienced in working with the elderly, ensuring that they are provided with the necessary care.” ”

Alyaa Al Kuwari, Director of the Department of Public Relations and Communications at the Ministry of Public Health, emphasized that the survey reflects the determination of the Ministry of Public Health and its partners to ensure the continuous improvement of services for the elderly and the whole society. The survey also supports the priorities of the National Health Strategy 2024-2030 by providing essential data for the development of policies, plans and programs serving older people.

Al Kuwari explained that participants selected for the survey will be contacted in advance via phone calls and text messages to arrange a convenient time for home visits.

Alyaa Al Kuwari encouraged community members to support this national initiative and work with the survey team, which has received extensive training in conducting home visits, data collection, research and development in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health and its partners, the World Health Organization (WHO). and administering survey instruments.

For any queries regarding the survey and the field team, the public can contact the concerned officials through the unified health sector call center at 16000.