Table 1 Identified Research Priorities

Healthcare delivery

1. To map the burden of NCDs to healthcare infrastructure to identify mismatched geographical locations.

2. To model the future economic and healthcare burden of NCDs to inform policy.

3. To assess the perception of NCDs in Botswana in both urban and rural setting and identify potential barriers to screening or treatment.

4. To test screening tools and treatment pathways in Botswana, both for sensitivity and specificity but also feasibility in a rural and urban setting.

5. To test different healthcare delivery models focusing on older age across Botswana.

Economics- poverty and pension

1. Surveys to describe the circumstances of older people in Botswana to encompass levels of income, activities and health in rural and urban settings.

2. Qualitative research to explore relationships and interactions between older and younger people in Botswana and what each group considers the needs of the other to be, comparing rural and urban settings, including social engagement and relevance to their communities (urban versus rural).

3. Determine the prevalence and effects of intergenerational care on social engagement and retirement employment opportunities.

4. Trials of retired employment activities and day centres for retired people (which could include childcare) to determine feasibility and support community engagement.

Social networks and resources

1. To understand the views and experiences of older people, with a clear focus on the key areas that most affect the quality of life experienced by older people and the health and social care they receive.

2. To explore how much older people know about their rights and to assess access to legal services comparing older and younger citizens across rural or urban settings.

3. Qualitative research to determine whether people think age should be specifically referred to in law or if charter for older people should be developed in Botswana.

4. To assess housing for older citizens in urban and rural settings and perceptions about housing

5. To survey public buildings to assess accessibility for older citizens and assess perceptions about public infrastructure.

The Botswana Development Goals

1. Develop mechanisms for data collection that inform on the progress towards meeting SDGs and the extent to which older people benefit as well as younger people in their attainment.