IV-8. “Training of Trainers for Community-based Medical Care for the Elderly in Bhutan” (H28 FY2016)

Outline of Research

We will conduct a Training of Trainers (ToT) for the medical care of elderly people in the Kingdom of Bhutan. “Guidelines for community-based medical check-ups for the elderly”, made in cooperation with health staff of the Khaling Basic Health Unit and the Ministry of Health, Bhutan, will be used in the training. In the ToT, we will jointly see the patients and observe local needs together with trainees. We will discuss with each other how to improve the methods and supply health services to improve the health of the communities.

Description

The purpose of this research is to understand how to better maintain the health of the elderly in the target communities. According to the Royal Government of Bhutan, those age 65 years or above numbered 29,745 in 2005, this number will likely double by 2030. It has been reported that 80 percent of those over 65 have at least one chronic illness, and 50 percent have at least two chronic conditions. Given this high prevalence and impact of chronic health problems among the elderly, effective and efficient care to address these problems is increasingly important in order to maximize both the length and quality of life. After discussions with people in Bhutan, we focus on the following 13 items: disability, dementia, depression, diabetes, dental problems, isolation, hypertension, addiction, vision problems, ear problems, falls, urinary incontinence, and nutrition. The ToT will be a significant opportunity to share information about the health of the elderly among health staff from local to central levels.

Drujeygang Basic Health Unit in Dagana in September 2015

A scene that a Health Assistant examined Functional Reach Test for an older adult