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Empirical studies focused on older adults in the Philippines and Vietnam appear minimal and mostly regarding perceptions of aging. An effective geriatric care strongly relies on functional service providers requiring their perspectives to be explored toward inclusive service delivery.
To investigate the perceived gaps and opportunities in geriatric care service delivery among health and social care workers in selected urban areas in the Philippines and Vietnam. A qualitative case study approach drawn on social constructivism theory, examined working experiences, observed characteristics of older adults, geriatric services and needs, difficulties on service delivery, and recommended solutions.
A total of 12 semi-structured interviews and 29 focus group discussions were conducted in the Philippines, with health and social care workers, while in Vietnam, there were 23 semi-structured interviews and 29 focus group discussions with participants. An inductive thematic analysis was employed. Interview participants highlighted the increasing unmet needs such as accessibility, availability, and acceptability of geriatric care services.
The implementation of interventions on the older population faced multiple challenges, including issues related to older adult conundrums and dilemmas in geriatric care providers and facilities. The participants from the two countries felt that strengthening implementation of collaboration toward an integrated geriatric care structure and expansion of training and capability in handling older adults can be potential in addressing the gaps at both individual and institutional levels.
