Identifying the Needs of Elderly Pilgrims in Holy and Religious Places Case Study: Holy Shrine of Imam Riḍā (as)

At present, the increasing spread of human tendency to divine beliefs and religion has led various communities to show more willingness to attend religious sites and pilgrimage. On the other hand, the phenomenon of aging in the modern world, and especially in Iran, is increasing due to the demographic factors of the population due to the decrease in births and mortality. Iran is known as a religious country. The ever-increasing presence of pilgrims and elderly worshipers in religious places of the country, and the requirement for accountability and service tailored to this category, requires special attention to the needs of the elderly in these places.
This study uses data from interviews with selected elites in Āstān Quds Raḍavī, and the qualitative method of data theorizing, and using the software "Max Q D A" seeks to provide a conceptual model to meet the needs of the elderly in twelve categories corresponding to the five basic human needs in William Glasser’s choice theory.
This study has provided models for increasing security of life, and physical and mental needs of the elderly in terms of the need to survive; and the sense of belonging and emotional attachment, the physical contact in terms of the need for love and a sense of belonging and success; and the desired behavior and respect for the elderly in terms of the need for power; and gentleness of conduct and non-disturbance with regard to the pilgrim and the freedom to choose and creativity for the elderly in terms of the need for freedom; and finally, being with others for worship, staying in religious places and repeating pilgrimage in terms of the need to have fun.