International Day of Older Persons marked
Dubai: The Dubai Foundation for Women & Children (DFWC) joined the world in marking the International Day of Older Persons as part of its keenness to participate in meaningful social events. The World Health Organisation designated October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons to raise awareness about the rights of older persons in care and support at all levels.
Shaikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Directorgeneral of DFWC, said: “Supporting and caring for elderly is one of the teachings of Islam and a significant value in our culture and traditions. Our wise leaders and rulers encourage us to show gratitude and respect for our parents and we are commited to follow their path in supporting elderly and appreciating their true and unlimited spirit of giving.
“Senior citizens are the UAE leadership’s top priority. The UAE Government approved a national policy for the senior Emiratis which is built upon 4 goals and focuses on seven main components with 26 initiatives and projects. The policy aims to protect the rights of senior Emiratis, ensure their access to quality services and improve the quality of their lives. This includes their right to an enabling environment, emotional support, social care, preferential treatment, infrastructure and effective participation. Among the initiatives which have been launched to achieve this goal are the “Age-friendly Institutions” and the “Capacity Building Programme for Senior Citizens” as well as events to honour senior citizens in recognition of their giving,” Al Mansouri added.
She noted that the Dubai Foundation for Women & Children is keen to preserve the rights of the elderly, and contributes to supporting all initiatives and programmes aimed at providing them with modern skills and protecting them from violence and abuse. The UAE has zero cases of elder abuse thanks to the Emirati inherent traditional values and the teachings of Islam, as well as the laws and legislations that ensure welfare of older people and protect them from abuse.
“Senior citizens are on the UAE’S top priority list and are provided with special care, including healthcare and social assistance. We honour them every day not only on this occasion and our duty is to appreciate their contribution to society and ensure their happiness and welfare,” she said.
“Since its establishment in 1971, the UAE commited itself to support older persons through social welfare programmes designed to improve the quality of their lives and ensure their wellbeing in recognition of their experience, knowledge and contribution to the development process in the country,” she concluded.