Iran Ministry of Health announces integrated care plan for elderly

The Iranian Ministry of Health has announced a new strategic plan to implement an ‘integrated care model’ for the elderly to address the country’s rapidly growing aging population. In a message marking International Day of Older Persons, Mohammad Reza Zafarkandi emphasized that the focus must shift from merely increasing lifespan to improving the quality of life through healthy and active aging.

The proposed model aims to move the healthcare system away from a sole focus on treating diseases toward a preventive approach. This includes continuous assessment of key functional abilities such as memory, mobility, nutrition, mental health, vision, and hearing to prevent dependency and maintain independence.

Beyond clinical care, the Ministry highlighted the economic importance of this shift, noting that investing in prevention and functional maintenance is the most efficient way to control healthcare costs and optimize national resources. The initiative calls for cross-sector cooperation, including urban planning to create elderly-friendly environments and the strengthening of social support networks.