Tuesday, 'HelpAge International' launched a study assessing the health needs of the elderly in Jordan. The study found that 28 percent of the elderly require a home care provider for daily life activities.

Among the 28 percent, 84 percent had the financial ability to obtain a home care provider.

The study, which was launched during a ceremony organized by the organization, with the participation of representatives of civil society institutions, local, national and international organizations, and the private sector, aimed to help achieve a broader understanding and raise awareness about the comprehensive health needs of elderly Syrians and Jordanians aged 60 years and over in the Kingdom.

The results of the study showed that 33 percent of the total respondents depend on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as a source of income, 63 percent of whom are Syrian and 18 percent of whom are Jordanian.

In terms of health insurance, the study showed that 48 percent of the respondents do not have health insurance, noting that 71 percent have at least one chronic disease that needs regular treatment. From the 71 percent, 35 percent are unable to purchase the medication they require on a regular basis.

In terms of mental health, the results indicated that 43 percent of Jordanian respondents are more likely to suffer from severe mental disorders compared to 59 percent of Syrians. As for disabilities, the results indicated that 98 percent of the respondents have some type of disability.

The study was discussed by representatives of the Ministry of Social Development, the Ministry of Health, the National Council for Family Affairs, in addition to the HelpAge organization.

A wide dialogue was also held about the study and the details that were addressed by the attendees and the representative committee.

The participants recommended continuing efforts to promote the rights of the elderly in Jordan and to promote policies that support the preservation of their rights and their well-being.