The values of age-friendly health care in Ljubljana

Abstract

Background: The qualitative research, performed by the World Health Organization within the global project »Age-Friendly Cities« in 33 cities around the world, was reproduced in Ljubljana. Method: Focus groups of elderly inhabitants of Ljubljana, their carers and service providers, discussed in accordance with the Vancouver protocol the friendliness of urban environment and public services, health care included, towards the elderly population of Ljubljana. Results: The article represents observations of participants regarding health care with respect to the values of older people’s dignity, access to health services, pharmacotherapy and organization of health services. Conclusions: The participants are generally satisfied with the health services in Ljubljana, however they would like to see more efficient organization of work and they wish to be treated in a friendlier way.