Socio-Healthcare for Older People in the Mediterranean Basin: An Integrative Review and Quality Appraisal.

Abstract

The aging Mediterranean Basin population presents complex challenges for healthcare systems, which require innovative care approaches. The study aimed to critically assess 19 socio-healthcare practices in the Mediterranean Basin that target the elderly population by analyzing their theoretical foundations, integration of care services, ethical considerations, gender-specific approaches, and use of technology. An integrative literature review was conducted using a structured methodology. Diverse sources across multiple languages were searched, with the inclusion criteria focusing on the alignment of socio-healthcare practices with the components of the nursing metaparadigm, the incorporation of transversal values, and relevance to the elderly population. The socio-healthcare practices exhibited common themes, such as person-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and incorporation of technology for coordinated care delivery. Ethical principles of autonomy, dignity, and respect were central, with some socio-healthcare practices addressing gender-specific care needs. Evidence-based findings emphasized holistic care, integration, ethics, and innovation in elderly socio-healthcare. New eldercare frameworks should integrate these aspects, which offer a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex needs of elderly patients. Managers should design systems prioritizing patient well-being, whereas policymakers should develop equitable and high-quality care policies that collectively improve the well-being of the elderly population in the Mediterranean Basin.