The ‘Future Vision for Elderly Services’ forum, inaugurated under the auspices of Shaikh Rashid bin Ahmed al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development, focused on outlining aspirations and future services for the elderly in Oman. The forum explored key areas such as enhancing care and protection services, improving social integration, and promoting active ageing through a collaborative approach.
Sayyidah Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidy, Director-General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development, emphasised the ministry’s commitment to developing services for the elderly. “The ministry relies on studying the assessment of their needs and desires in providing services to the elderly according to a sustainable system based on empowerment, integration and capacity development.” The forum saw the signing of a significant memorandum of cooperation between the Ministry of Social Development and the Ihsan Association. The agreement ensures that the Ministry supports the Association in home care services by providing necessary data, transportation and follow-up services. The Association will also handle the preparation of homes for elderly care, adhering to ministry-approved standards.
Two dialogue sessions discussed critical topics such as "active ageing" and future aspirations for elderly services. Safia al Amiri, Director of Elderly Affairs at the Ministry, presented a working paper titled ‘The Aspirations of the Ministry of Social Development to Raise the Quality of Life of the Elderly.’ She stressed the importance of the government’s role in ensuring elderly rights. “Caring for the elderly is one of the government's priorities to guarantee their rights and improve their quality of life.” She also highlighted the ministry’s goal to foster independence, social interaction, and economic well-being for the elderly through partnerships and integrated efforts.
Al Amiri further discussed the concept of "alternative families" for elderly individuals without immediate family support, underscoring the ministry’s role in providing community-based care. “The alternative family service seeks to keep the elderly within the community by providing essential care when actual family support is unavailable.” Statistical insights revealed that Oman’s elderly population reached 214,166 in 2022, with a forecast of 376,716 by 2024. The data underscored the need for continued focus on elderly care services.
The second working paper, presented by Maryam al Mahrouqi, National Officer for Physical Therapy Services, addressed the impact of physical activity on healthy ageing. She stressed the importance of ongoing physical therapy programmes. “Physical therapy and physical activity are essential for healthy ageing by improving mental health, muscle strength, balance and overall well-being,” she noted.
Additionally, Fatima al Rashidi from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning discussed the concept of “elderly-friendly cities,” designed to accommodate the needs of the elderly and ensure ease of movement and safety. The forum concluded with a working paper by Dr Idris bin Abdullah al Juma, who discussed the challenges and opportunities in elderly care services. He highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare, family involvement, and civil society’s role in supporting the elderly. “Home and community care, along with day centres and social activities, represent vital opportunities for the elderly to stay engaged and supported.”
Through the forum, the Ministry of Social Development reaffirmed its commitment to assessing the evolving needs of Oman’s elderly population. The ministry emphasised that elderly care remains a top priority, ensuring a holistic approach that covers health, social and economic aspects of ageing in Oman.
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