13 hours ago
UAE: Many senior citizens feel depressed as social centres continue to be shut since Covid-19
The continued closure of social development centres for senior Emiratis is causing loneliness and depression for many, due to a lack of community engagement opportunities —a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) warned on Wednesday.
FNC member Sumayya Al Suwaidi argued that the Ministry of Community Development's efforts towards older UAE national, were not sufficient to improve their quality of life, especially with social centres remaining shut 'five long years' after Covid.
'The minister spoke of the efforts the ministry has taken to support senior Emiratis… are those efforts enough to improve their quality of life?' Al Suwaidi questioned during the session. 'Is this a way to protect the future of the country, to enhance the quality of life of the people? Is this a way to provide them with a better life?'
She stressed the crucial role the social centres once played. 'The centres were a place of joy and happiness, and the elders gathered among themselves. This is the least we can do for them,' she said, adding that the spaces also bridged generations, as many students would visit to listen to the stories and wisdom of the elderly. 'Since the centres closed five years ago, we have not seen any development in the services provided to senior citizens,' she pointed. 'They are suffering from loneliness and depression as they stay alone at home, with their children being busy at work most of the time.'
In response, Minister of Family Sana Suhail said the ministry is currently working on a new national operational plan to improve the wellbeing of older citizens. The plan, she said, includes a range of programmes, initiatives, and specialised workshops to be implemented nationwide, with a focus on geographic diversity and sustainable social impact. She said the ministry will soon announce details of the upcoming initiatives, which aim to empower senior citizens and strengthen their role in society, in line with the UAE government's long-term vision.
Suhail added that supporting senior citizens remains a strategic priority. 'The ministry is working to develop the services provided to them in line with the highest standards,' she said, noting that efforts are being made in coordination with local and federal partners and in accordance with relevant national policies. She highlighted the historic role of social development centres, describing them as key in enhancing community happiness, acting as a bridge between the ministry and the public, and fostering family cohesion. She added added that the restructuring of ministry teams in mid-2023 was part of an effort to improve the centres' efficiency and redefine their role as 'customer happiness centres' to deliver upgraded services.
