The Minister of Social Development and Family in Doha, Qatar, HE Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, recently expressed her deep appreciation for esteemed elders at a Forum for the elderly organized by the Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan). The event, held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, coincided with the Arab Day for the Elderly. During the forum, HE Al Misnad emphasized that parents are the true wealth and the foundation of Qatar’s modern renaissance, nurturing the values of noble ethics and Islamic principles that have led to prosperity and stability in the country.
HE Al Misnad also highlighted the importance of fulfilling the needs of the elderly and improving the quality of services offered to them as a way to show gratitude for their contributions to society. Executive Director of Ehsan, Manal Al Mannai, emphasized the priority placed on the senior population by Qatar’s wise leadership, with legislation and laws in place to safeguard the rights of the elderly and help them overcome challenges associated with aging. Al Mannai commended Qatari society for its high regard for parents and elders, rooted in Islamic and Arab values that emphasize respect and care for the elderly.
Ehsan operates with a forward-looking vision to fulfill the aspirations of Qatar’s elders, launching services and programs specifically designed to enhance the skills of the senior population and raise awareness of their needs across different fields. During the forum, members of the center shared their stories and experiences, expressing gratitude to Qatar’s leadership and those who have supported and cared for them. The event also included messages of respect and appreciation from the younger generation to the esteemed elders, highlighting the knowledge and life experiences passed down from seniors to the younger generation.
The General Secretariat of the Arab League has approved celebrating the Arab Day for the Elderly based on Qatar’s proposal, designating October 10 as an annual day to honor the elderly starting from 2023. This recognition reflects the importance placed on the senior population in Arab societies and the acknowledgment of their role in achieving comprehensive development in Qatar and beyond. The event in Doha serves as a reminder of the valuable contributions of the elderly to society and the need to prioritize their care and well-being.
