Challenges in the Care of Elderly Patients: The Role of Nurses in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In Saudi Arabia, the increasing elderly population presents significant challenges in healthcare, particularly regarding the provision of geriatric care. Nurses play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, including managing chronic diseases, mobility issues, and cognitive impairments common among older adults. Cultural factors, such as the family's role in caregiving and societal attitudes toward aging, further complicate nursing care. Many nurses are tasked with balancing the needs of elderly patients with the expectations of their families, often in under-resourced healthcare environments where training and specialized geriatric education may be limited. Moreover, the nursing workforce in Saudi Arabia faces its own set of challenges, including staffing shortages, high workloads, and the need for ongoing professional development in geriatric care. There is a pressing requirement for enhanced training programs and support systems to equip nurses with the necessary skills to address the complexities of elderly care. Improved communication between healthcare providers and families is essential to ensure that the holistic and cultural needs of elderly patients are met. By fostering a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, families, and the community, nurses can enhance the quality of care for the elderly and address the multifaceted needs of this growing demographic.