INTRODUCTION: Aging is a vital period of life that people often think about in their retirement years. The global population of this age group has grown significantly. In addition, older persons in low- and medium-income countries (LMICs) confront a number of challenges, including poverty, a scarcity of skilled geriatric experts, food insecurity, disability and health issues, and insufficient long-term care. This study aimed to understand the challenges and needs of implementing Rwanda’s national policy for older persons.
METHODS: This study employed a qualitative design, involving ten participants recruited through snowball non-probability sampling methods. Face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted till theme saturation. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze data.
RESULTS: This study emerged with two themes with their sub-themes: (1) Challenges hindering the implementation of the policy (awareness and dissemination Issues, financial constraints, lack of coordination and leadership, inadequate legal and structural framework, social and cultural barriers, and healthcare access issues); and (2) needs to facilitate policy implementation (enhanced awareness and education, increased financial and resource allocation, stronger leadership and coordination mechanisms, legal and structural reforms, and social and cultural integration).
CONCLUSION: The efficacy of the national policy for older individuals is constrained by insufficient awareness and distribution efforts, as well as financial constraints. To tackle these difficulties, the study emphasized the necessity for financial budget allocation, awareness initiatives, and coordinated, effective leadership.
