Center for Geriatric Services

Cairo, Egypt

Egypt's population is rapidly growing, affecting its economic and social life. The socioeconomic situation is causing steady migration from rural to urban areas, adding to the already existing housing problems. Out of Egypt's 60 million people, 4% are above the age of 65. Out of these approximately 700,000 live in greater Cairo. The multi generational households, once traditionally known to Egypt are decreasing, leaving an increasing number of aged people living alone.

The Center for Geriatric Services -planned, built, and operated by the Women's Union of the Coptic Evangelical Church of Egypt, Synod of the Nile, is a pioneer program in that land. Geared to traditional family life in Egypt, the center works to augment and support families to provide needed care for the elderly. In so doing the center seeks to enhance the spiritual, physical, and mental well-being of its clients and to promote a healthy outlook concerning old age.

The Geriatric Center can provide residential facilities for 75 people and also non-residential services for 400-500 people. These services include medical care, physical therapy, day care, meals, educational, cultural and spiritual activities. Volunteers provide transportation to the center. Outreach services to the homes include meals, medical care, and household help. The Center also provides training for family members and training for personnel. Services are offered to the every elderly person regardless of class, sex or religion.

Since geriatric care is new in Egypt, the training provided by the Center and the work it does is a model for the country. Dr. Magda Iskander, a mission specialist for PC(USA), serves as a consultant and trainer for the center. January of 1997 saw the graduation of the first class of participants in a training program for home health care providers, developed by Dr. Iskander. Her goal in providing this course is to help relieve the burden on family members and reduce the need for hospital services, through home health assistance.

The Center for Geriatric Services in Cairo is assisted by the PC(USA) through Extra commitment Opportunity Funds Account 862610.