Muscat – A symposium in the wilayat of Ibri has called for greater community involvement and improved support systems for the elderly, as Oman grapples with the challenges posed by changing family structures and signs of social disintegration.

Organised by the Ministry of Health (MoH) in coordination with Dhahirah governorate, the one-day event focused on the rising needs of the ageing population. Titled ‘Caring for the Elderly in Light of Family Challenges: Between Social Disintegration and Care Needs’, the symposium was conducted by the Health Committee in collaboration with the Elderly Care and Community Health Programme.

The event aimed to raise public awareness of the issues affecting senior citizens and promote closer family ties, while encouraging the development of more inclusive care systems.

Four working papers were presented, covering health, psychological, and social aspects of elderly care. Badriya bint Humaid al Mahrami, a member of the Elderly Care Programme in Dhahirah, opened the session by outlining the daily challenges facing the elderly in the region and the support provided through the National Home Care Programme.

Dr Huda bint Salim al Badia, a family medicine specialist, presented the second paper. She highlighted the emotional and social impact of family breakdown. “Neglect and emotional distance are becoming more common, affecting the mental wellbeing of our elderly,” she said, referencing local case studies.

In the third presentation, Dr Ali Talib al Hadrami discussed psychological strategies to strengthen family bonds. He underlined the importance of communication and mutual trust in sustaining supportive inter-generational relationships.

Yousef al Lamki, head of the Ihsan Association branch in South Batinah, delivered the final paper, stressing the value of community involvement. “Community-led initiatives are crucial in bridging service gaps and delivering emotional and practical support,” he said.

A panel discussion followed the presentations, resulting in a series of recommendations. These included expanding access to comprehensive healthcare, establishing social centres offering psychological and recreational services, adapting urban spaces to be more elder-friendly, providing financial support to low-income families, and building stronger volunteer networks across the country.