Qualitative research of attitudes about aging and the needs of elderly people in Rijeka : public health and bioethical aspects

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the specificities and real needs as well as the possibilities for care improvement of elderly in the City of Rijeka primarily through public health and bioethics perspectives. Subjects and methods: The examinees were divided into three groups: elderly, and formal and informal caregivers from the City of Rijeka. In each group, a qualitative focus group method was performed according to a predetermined protocol. The study was conducted during 2015 and included a total number of 40 examinees: elderly (N = 12), formal caregivers (N = 14) and informal caregivers (N = 14). RESULTS: Study results are shown in integrated categories for particular thematic issues: perception of ageing, expectation and needs, usage of medicines, organization of health care, usage of modern technologies, and health promotion. Results have shown that there is a need for further development of infrastructure self-management methods in community in order to improve the quality of life and prolongation of independence of the elderly. Conclusions: The results indicate the need for integration of health and social care with the support of local community of the City of Rijeka with consequent reduction of care costs and the improvement of the quality of life and extended independence of the elderly.