Muscat: The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) issued a decision on Sunday regarding the licensing of daycare centres for the elderly. The decision aims to ensure their rehabilitation, provide a safe environment for them to develop specific skills during their free time, and encourage community members to volunteer to serve the elderly and help them play an active role in society.
To apply for a licence to establish a care centre, Omanis aged 25 years and above with financial stability and a commercial register can apply. Companies registered with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) are also eligible to apply.
Applicants must hold a university degree recognised in the Sultanate of Oman in social or human sciences specialisations. They should not have any charges of felony or penalties for crimes involving dishonesty or trustworthiness, even if their reputation has been restored.
Civil society organisations must be registered under the law, with areas of work or objectives that include serving the elderly.
Elderly occupants of the daycare centre must be at least 60 years old for both genders, with exceptions granted in some cases with approval from the competent authority, provided that the age is not less than 45 years. They must be free of infectious diseases, severe psychological disorders, and mental illnesses, as proven by a medical report approved by the Ministry of Health. They should not be dependent on medical devices for cardiac care or breathing.
The licencee or director of the care centre must allow employees of the competent authority to enter the care centre at any time, providing necessary facilities for them to perform their duties. They must also allow access to records, data, or information requested regarding the care centre and the elderly beneficiaries, including camera recordings if necessary.
The applicant is prohibited from announcing the opening of the care centre for registration or engaging in any activities before the licence is issued.
The care centre must provide periodic medical supervision and first aid for emergency cases, as well as procedures for referral to health centres and institutions if needed. It should be located in a suitable place, away from noise, close to residential neighbourhoods and public services.
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