CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE

The Eastern Mediterranean region is entering a period of rapid demographic transition. Over the coming decades, ageing populations will increase significantly, reshaping healthcare systems, social structures, and family dynamics. Traditionally, older adults in our societies have been regarded as sources of spiritual blessing, wisdom, faith, and guidance. Families have historically assumed primary responsibility for their care, providing financial assistance, emotional support, and help with daily activities.

However, rapid socioeconomic change, urbanization, and shifting family structures are progressively weakening these traditional support systems. While strong intergenerational bonds remain-particularly in rural areas-it is increasingly difficult to preserve this model of care in modern settings.
At the same time, the rising number of older adults presents complex medical, cognitive, and functional challenges that require specialized expertise. The shortage of trained geriatricians, gerontologists, and adequately prepared healthcare professionals significantly limits the ability of healthcare systems to properly assess, treat, and rehabilitate older persons. This gap contributes to inappropriate care, higher healthcare expenditures, and poorer patient outcomes.

Education remains the cornerstone of meaningful reform. Without structured academic training in ageing and geriatric medicine, negative attitudes and misconceptions toward older persons may persist, leading to marginalization and neglect. The Middle East Academy for Medicine of Ageing (MEAMA) was established to address this urgent need by advancing professional education, enhancing clinical competence, and promoting sensitivity to ageing-related issues across the region.

Since its establishment, MEAMA has successfully completed eight postgraduate courses in Geriatrics, significantly contributing to capacity building in the field. In response to the growing burden of cognitive disorders in the region, the Academy has also recently launched a Postgraduate Course in Dementia Care, with two full cycles already completed. These programs reflect MEAMA's commitment to structured, high-level academic training tailored to the evolving needs of ageing populations.

Recognizing similar demographic trends in North Africa, MEAMA has, with the support of its board members, launched the Maghreb Academy for Medicine of Ageing to address the unmet needs of the Maghreb and North African countries. Through these initiatives, we aim to strengthen regional expertise and improve the quality of life, dignity, and healthcare standards for older persons throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

Sincerely
A. Abyad, MD, MPH, MBA, DBA, AGSF
Consultant, Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, DASH, Kuwait
Chairman, Middle-East Academy for Medicine of Aging
President, the Middle East & North Africa Association on Ageing & Alzheimer's