In a session facilitated by HelpAge International, Professor Shereen Hussein draws on current policy development in long-term care within the context of population ageing in Iran. The presentation was part of a seminar with key stakeholders in Iran. Professor Hussein started by providing an overview of population ageing and demographic changes in Iran comparatively to the wider MENA region. She then discussed the socio-geographic context of the region and the implications related to care provisions and preferences of care models within families and individuals.
The discussion included reflections on the impact of COVID19 on older people and care provision with a view of learning from such experiences when planning services and support. The presentation then discussed some potential ideas to developing a long term care market that is tailored to the cultural and societal needs and preferences of older people in Iran and the region.
In conclusion, the presentation recommended developing a multi-dimensional response to population ageing. First, it is crucial to empower older people and enhance their ability to live independently and manage their self-care. Second, building capacity and knowledge mobilisation of innovations and research that can be adapted within the Iranian context. Third, the importance of creating formal and regulated care markets with an adequately trained and supported workforce. Fourth, develop mechanisms to funding and financing long-term care at the state and individual levels.
SHussein-LTCSystems
Founder and Director
Shereen Husseinis a Health and Social Care Policy professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), United Kingdom.
Shereen Founded the MENARAH Network in 2019, through an initial grant from the Global Challenge Research Fund, UKRI. She is a medical demographer with expertise in ageing, family dynamics, migration and long-term care systems. Shereen regularly collaborates with the United Nations, the World Health Organisation and the World Bank in policy and research focused on ageing in the Middle East and North Africa Region.
Shereen received her undergraduate degree in statistics and a postgraduate degree in computer science at Cairo University. She completed an MSc in medical demography at the London School of Hygiene and a PhD in quantitative demography and population studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science, United Kingdom.
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