Profiling Physicians’ Knowledge, Perceptions, and Attitudes on Geriatric Care in Senegal Using Latent Class Analysis

Abstract Introduction: Senegal is facing the growing complexity of health needs among older adults (OAs) due to the increasing life expectancy of its population. To address this issue, the country has launched a National Strategic Plan for Healthy Aging 2024–2028. It is therefore necessary to study the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of healthcare providers. Methods: A national survey was conducted among physicians from August 19 to October 05, 2025, using a self-administered questionnaire. We collected the demographic data and information on knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes. We conducted a latent class analysis to group respondents according to common characteristics of knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding the care of OAs. A secondary Chi-square test was used to identify the factors associated with class membership. Analyses were performed using Jamovi 2.6.26. Results: Out of 82 responses, 73 were analyzed. Most respondents (38.4%) had completed a medical specialty, 65.8% practiced in the Dakar region, and three-quarters had never received training in geriatrics. A good overall level of knowledge was found in 42.5%. Three classes were identified. Class 1 (54.5% of the sample) consisted of providers with moderate knowledge and perception but very good attitudes. Class 2 (12.3%) was characterized by poor scores across all three indicators. Class 3 (33.2%) was defined by good knowledge, with partially satisfactory perception and attitude. Conclusion: Our results show a heterogeneous level of knowledge, contrasting with a relatively good perception of geriatric care and highlight the significant need for training among nongeriatric physicians. Moreover, a higher level of knowledge would likely improve perception, thereby facilitating implementation.