Muscat – Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) has announced new regulations to improve care for elderly citizens living in government-run care homes.

A ministerial decision issued by H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, outlines comprehensive support for care home residents, including housing, medical services, psychological care and recreational activities. The new rules, issued on May 20, will take effect starting May 26.

Under Ministerial Decision No 169/2025, government-run care homes are mandated to provide a safe and supportive environment for Omanis aged 60 and older who are unable to care for themselves. MoSD will work with other authorities to manage residents’ financial matters and assist in preparing wills for those legally capable.

The regulations set eligibility criteria for admission. Applicants must be Omani nationals unable to manage daily life independently. Preference will be given to those without family support or whose families are unable to provide adequate care. Admission is subject to an assessment by the ministry and a medical certificate from a government health institution confirming the absence of contagious diseases or severe mental illness.

MoSD reserves the right to waive certain eligibility conditions based on findings of its assessment.

The new regulations also address daily operations of care homes. Residents may receive visitors and leave the facility based on the home’s policy. Homes can have the services of volunteers, provided they are legally competent, of good character and medically fit as certified by a government health facility.

The new regulations prohibit the publication or sharing of residents’ images or personal details without written consent of the home.

A resident’s stay may end if they choose to leave, regain independence, experience changes in family circumstances or in the event of death.

A ministry statement said the regulations reflect its ‘commitment to ensuring dignified and holistic care for Oman’s elderly citizens’.