Sixty local councils have expressed interest in establishing 'Israhvehinge Naadhee,' or Senior Community Centres, stated Dr Aishath Shiham, Minister of Social and Family Development. The announcement was made during the fourth session of the 'Ahaa' series, an event orchestrated by the President's Office in collaboration with Public Service Media (PSM).
These centres are intended to provide dedicated spaces for senior citizens to congregate, hold meetings, participate in various activities, and socialise. The social and family development ministry had previously invited local councils to express interest in setting up such centres on their respective islands.
Addressing the 'Ahaa' forum, Minister Shiham underscored the growing elderly population in the Maldives, mirroring a trend observed globally. A significant number of local councils had demonstrated interest in establishing these centres to ensure elderly citizens have designated spaces for their activities, she highlighted.
Though approximately sixty local councils have shown interest, according to Minister Shiham, the ministry is currently in discussions with these councils to identify suitable locations. The ministry is also actively working on devising a comprehensive strategy and action plan for elderly care, she added.
During visits to the outer islands, ministry officials have been engaging with elderly populations to understand the challenges and issues they face, Minister Shiham noted. Aligning with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's electoral pledge, according to the minister, the administration is working on establishing medical clinics dedicated to the elderly and introducing programmes aimed at elderly care.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment, Minister Shiham stated that President Dr Muizzu's government is dedicated to identifying and addressing the issues and challenges faced by the elderly. The administration is currently developing a policy to allocate points to elderly individuals applying for government-run social housing programmes, she added.
Ensuring the protection and rights of elderly persons and enhancing their participation in society remain a cornerstone of President Dr Muizzu's pledge. Establishing senior community centres nationwide is a pivotal aspect of this commitment. The first centre was inaugurated in February 2024, with an additional centre in Hulhumalé set to be inaugurated soon.