Social problems and their impact on the health of the elderly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

1. Introduction
Social and health issues are commonly associated with aging. These problems are often a result of a decrease in various physiological capacities and cognitive or psychological challenges, rather than old age itself. These problems are often compounded by social and economic inequalities, weak social support systems, limited or absent public assistance measures, and individual actions that either aggravate or compound the other issues, particularly concerning the health of the elderly. This is particularly true in many Arab and Asian societies. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is no exception to this pattern. Over recent decades, the Kingdom has faced and is facing health, social, and economic problems. These problems are, in turn, affecting at least the health and social well-being of its citizens, including the elderly.
Methods
A qualitative research based on description was conducted. Study design used in-depth interviews. Participants and Methods used were: Participants- Both male and female older patients divided equally (20 Male and 20 Female). Setting- Three Groups were available. Their Health Situation- Inclusive Criteria were included. Content- Daily lifestyle, social activities. Support- Family, work, physical environment. Participants discuss health problems that constitute the future direction for effective elderly health care with tension of social development. Based on the dimension of health problems include the generations and advancing sciences with an aging society.
Conclusion
This review focuses on social problems of the elderly in KSA and the impact of these problems on their health. It is observed that the framework, development, and implementation of elderly social programs in many countries, including KSA, lag behind those required to achieve the desired impact. There are a number of elderly-defined health challenges in the Kingdom, including non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases, and mental health problems. Combating these challenges does not occur without some costs. To achieve the benefits of an effective elderly health program, a coordinated, cost-effective strategy must be developed that is focused on socially, economically, and culturally oriented interventions and includes the provision of support. This will result in tangible improvements not only in health but also in the quality of life of the elderly. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also needs to focus on, address, and engage the multidimensional backgrounds that underlie the elderly-defined health problems. Such health challenges are directly or indirectly driven by social, economic, cultural, and environmental disparities and challenges. KSA does not invest significant attention or resources to date in elderly social, physical, and mental well-being programs. There is an immediate and future need to do so if the health of the elderly in KSA is to be improved.