Muscat – As part of its efforts to enhance services for the elderly, Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) held a forum on Monday in Seeb titled ‘The Future Vision for Elderly Services’. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of H E Rashid bin Ahmed al Shamsi, MoSD Undersecretary.

The forum aimed to identify the aspirations of the elderly and their expectations for future services, discuss the care and protection currently provided, analyse the current situation of this demographic, and outline a future vision for their needs.

Additionally, the forum sought to establish mechanisms for leveraging social networks and support systems to improve the quality of life for the elderly. It also sought to promote active aging and explore ways to integrate seniors into society as effective partners.

Sayyida Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidiyah, Director General of Family Development at MoSD, said that Oman places great importance on its citizens, striving to meet their economic, social and cultural needs. She informed that these efforts are part of a broader plan for continuous development, serving as the foundation for progress and advancement.

Sayyida Maani highlighted the fact that MoSD views social care as a vital element of social protection, ensuring the security and cohesion of society. “The ministry provides various social care programmes and services tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups, including the elderly.”

She further explained that the ministry bases its services for the elderly on thorough assessment of their needs and preferences, following a sustainable system focused on empowerment, integration and capacity development, all grounded in human rights and effective partnerships.

On the sidelines of the forum, MoSD and Ihsan Association signed an agreement aimed at improving services for individuals in need of home care. This collaboration includes MoSD supporting the association by providing  information and data related to these cases. The ministry will facilitate transport of the association’s staff to visit these cases.

The agreement also outlines the ministry’s commitment to follow up on cases benefiting from home care services through its employees across governorates. Additionally, it emphasises cooperation with the association in addressing exceptional circumstances that require specific care and community integration.

Furthermore, Ihsan Association will take responsibility of constructing homes based on recommendations from case studies conducted by MoSD specialists. This partnership aims to enhance the quality of care and support provided to vulnerable individuals in the community.

The forum featured three presentations, including ‘Towards a Decent Life for the Elderly’, ‘Advantages of the Elderly in the Social Protection Fund’, and ‘Towards an Integrated Future Vision for Services for the Elderly’.