The UAE is seeing an increase in community projects that aim to keep the elderly entertained and engaged. Non-government organisation SmartLife Foundation has been organising free meetups for seniors every month, including yoga sessions, talks, and healthy exchanges. However, in September, they decided to let the seniors plan the meetup themselves. The seniors came up with various fun activities, including games and prizes, which left everyone laughing and having a great time.
With the increasing life expectancy of people, senior citizens are at risk of facing loneliness and neglect. The United Nations observed October 1 as International Day of Older Persons, focusing on ageing with dignity and strengthening support systems for older individuals. Internal medicine consultant and geriatrician Dr Salwa Alsuwaidi highlighted the importance of managing the health of the elderly, as they are now living longer lives.
Since SmartLife Foundation started its activities for older adults, a strong bond has been formed among the 26 registered members. These bonds of friendship are crucial for combating social isolation in the elderly population and helping them maintain their cognitive abilities. Dr Rahul Unnikrishnan emphasized the importance of socializing and engaging in activities that bring back happy memories for older adults, such as playing board games or traditional games.
In the UAE, there are several avenues for older adults to engage in leisure activities and socialize. The Seniors’ Happiness Centre provides various medical and social services for senior citizens, while the Thukher club offers a range of facilities for Emiratis above the age of 60. Raising awareness about geriatric medicine is also crucial, which is why the Emirates Geriatrics Society was formed to promote a holistic approach to the health of older individuals and increase awareness about issues like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Overall, the UAE is taking steps to ensure that older adults have access to facilities and activities that promote their well-being and social engagement. By creating opportunities for seniors to socialize, engage in fun activities, and receive comprehensive medical care, the country is working towards addressing the challenges faced by an ageing population. Initiatives like those by SmartLife Foundation and the Emirates Geriatrics Society play a vital role in improving the quality of life for older individuals in the UAE.
