Dr. Leila Ben Yahia¹, Dr. João Fernandes², Dr. Fatou Keita³
ABSTRACT:
Background: Community pharmacies play a crucial role in delivering frontline healthcare to older populations, particularly in aging societies. Despite their accessibility, older adults often face a range of barriers that impede effective care and counseling. Objective: This review identifies and categorizes barriers experienced by individuals aged 65 and above in community pharmacies and explores strategies—including technological interventions—to mitigate these challenges. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using five databases: PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and RCAAP. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and included qualitative and quantitative studies that addressed barriers to pharmacy-based care for older adults. Data extraction and quality appraisal were conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Results: Nine studies were included, identifying four major categories of barriers: professional limitations (e.g., lack of training, time constraints), patient-related factors (e.g., sensory impairments, language), structural issues (e.g., pharmacy design, privacy), and societal/institutional gaps (e.g., lack of government support). Facilitators included staff training, improved infrastructure, and supportive policies. Conclusion: Understanding these barriers is critical to tailoring age-friendly pharmacy services. Integrating digital tools such as telepharmacy and assistive communication technologies may serve as scalable solutions to enhance access and equity for the aging population.