ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the implementation of the recommendation inherent in the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Despite decreasing overall/fertility rates, the region’s absolute population growth momentum will see it overtake China by 2090. MENA countries have similar cultural, social, and economic characteristics, as well as common goals. Since ageing is a significant risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, the incidence and prevalence of these diseases are increasing across the board. The Madrid International Action Plan on Ageing should be seen as a guide for MENA countries to prioritise the issues that are under their purview and that they should address. Medical schools and area universities are actively developing additional geriatric and gerontological programmes. Nevertheless, a variety of organisations – including the Middle East Academy for Ageing Medicine – offer brief postgraduate courses for healthcare professionals who work with older persons. In terms of services, they are still dispersed, and only a few countries in the area have a comprehensive network that covers treatment for older persons across the continuum of acute care, community care, and long-term home care.
