Muscat – To engage the elderly in social activities, Ihsaan Association organised a mass iftar on Saturday for the seventh consecutive year, under the theme ‘Our iftar together brings joy’.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Jokha Mohammed Khamis al Farsi, head and founder of Ihsaan Association, highlighted the significance of the iftar initiative, which aims to foster a sense of responsibility among children towards the elderly and raise awareness in the community about the importance of caring for them.

“Over 130 elderly individuals participated in the iftar, which featured cultural competitions, the distribution of gifts among participants, and a video presentation showcasing the association’s endeavours,” Jokha informed.

She elaborated on the association’s efforts, emphasising its commitment to conducting awareness events in schools and Omani Women’s Associations, as well as organising talks addressing the needs of the elderly.

“Ihsaan Association also works to arrange foster families for the elderly. Under this programme, we have arranged homes for over 1,000 individuals across various wilayats. These foster families serve as alternative support systems for elderly individuals who have no children or relatives to care for them, providing accommodation, food and healthcare services as needed.”

Additionally, the association offers medical assistance at affordable rates, including prosthetic limbs for those with limited income.

It also provides free ambulance services to facilitate the transportation of elderly and disabled individuals to hospitals for regular check-ups and other medical requirements. It has assisted approximately 5,000 elderly persons in accessing healthcare facilities across Oman thus far.

Jokha affirmed the association’s determination to expand its awareness campaigns to include all wilayats of the sultanate.

“Last week, the association, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development, signed an agreement to construct a permanent headquarters spread over 4,000sqm in Mabela, Seeb. We hope to get support from private companies in realising this initiative.”