Quality of life in older age: a psychological review of mental health dimensions
Quality of life in older age is one of the most important indicators of well-being and psychological func- tioning in older adults. With the increase in life expectancy and the ageing of the population, attention to the psychological factors that influence the experience of this stage of life has increased significantly. This article analyses the scientific literature on quality of life in older age, with a special focus on the dimensions of mental health and psychological well-being. The literature review examines the role of depression, anxiety, emotional functioning, social support, and coping mechanisms in shaping quality of life. The findings show that perceptions, emotional well-being, and psychological resources have a stron- ger influence on the quality of life of older adults than their objective physical health. Mental well-being, a sense of meaning, and personal autonomy, together with social support, are consistently associated with higher levels of quality of life in older age. In this context, the article emphasizes the need to integrate psychological interventions within a biopsychosocial approach to the care of older adults.
Comparative analysis of health technology assessment and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries versus Albania
Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and health economic evaluations are key instruments for evi - dence-based decision making in health systems facing increasing budgetary pressure. HTA supports transparent and rational allocation of limited resources by assessing the clinical, economic, ethical and social value of health technologies. This paper compares the development and practical use of HTA and health economic evaluations in Western Balkan countries and Albania. A narrative review of World Health Organization (WHO) reports and peer-reviewed studies was conducted. Results show that Serbia and Croatia have established early legal and institutional frameworks for HTA, while Bosnia and Herze- govina recognizes HTA in legislation but lacks functional implementation structures. Across the region, health economic evaluations are mainly applied in reimbursement decisions for medicines but are rarely used systematically in broader health policy. Albania remains at the earliest stage of HTA development, with no formal national HTA agency and limited use of standardized economic evaluations. The findings highlight major gaps in institutional capacity, legal frameworks and data availability. Strengthening HTA structures, harmonizing evaluation standards and promoting regional cooperation could significantly im- prove transparency, efficiency and equity of health spending decisions. The study concludes that Albania lags behind neighboring countries in formal HTA implementation and requires urgent policy action to align with European standards.
Substance use among Albanian youth: Health consequences, knowledge, and social perceptions
Introduction: The use of psychoactive substances among young people is an increasing challenge in Albania, with serious impacts on their physical, mental, and social well-being. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practical experiences of young people related to drug use, as well as the contributing factors and possible consequences in their personal and academic lives. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices of young people in Tirana regarding drug use, and to identify the factors contributing to its use and the effects on mental, physical health, and social/professional life.
Methodology
This study was conducted using a quantitative research method through the collection of data via a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected through random sampling, including young people from various cities in Albania. Data was collected from 517 young individuals aged 18–25 in the city of Tirana. The data were statistically analyzed to identify key trends and correlations between various fac-tors. Data collection was carried out online (anonymously), using the Google Forms platform to ensure quick and efficient information gathering.
Conclusions
The results revealed a significant lack of knowledge about the real risks of drug use, especially concern-ing the most widespread substances such as cannabis. A considerable portion of young people expressed tolerant attitudes toward drug use, influenced by peer pressure, curiosity, and emotional stress. The findings highlight direct impacts on mental health, including symptoms of anxiety, depression, and dete-rioration in sleep and concentration. The social and academic effects include social isolation, decreased academic performance, and strained family relationships. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for comprehensive educational interventions, prevention strategies, and psycho-social support for young people in Albania in order to reduce the long-term impact of this phenomenon.