The Case for Muslim Aged Care in the West

Abstract

The number of Muslims in the West is growing, and with a corresponding increase in the average life expectancy of Muslims across the globe, there are legitimate concerns for Muslim aged care in the West. For practicing Muslims for whom Islam is not just a religion but also a way of life, aged care in general is a complex issue. One aspect of care not always incorporated into the overall aged care regime in the West makes it difficult for Muslims to access care that is deemed appropriate. This critical aspect is faith or religion without which Muslims are deprived of a viable choice amidst an array of services catering to mainstream care recipients. This article seeks to make a case for enhancing the choice of Muslims living in Western countries when it comes to choosing the right care for their twilight years. Therefore, the main argument of this article is that faith considerations must be recognised in care planning and delivery so that appropriate care can be offered to practicing Muslims.