The Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity, led by Minister Maja Morsi, is strengthening its elderly care services in celebration of the International Day of Older Persons, observed on October 1st. The ministry reported its efforts to develop an integrated system for elderly care, ensuring they receive necessary care and protection while promoting their independence and active participation in society.
The ministry prioritizes elderly care, extending beyond basic needs to preserving dignity, independence, and social participation. This approach involves providing home care and support within family settings, enabling seniors to live in familiar environments. Additionally, the ministry offers various health, social, and psychological services in coordination with relevant authorities and civil society organizations.
To promote public health for seniors, the ministry supports specialized medical convoys in collaboration with relevant ministries, agencies, and civil society institutions. These convoys provide medical services to seniors, particularly those in care homes, addressing their diverse health needs. Furthermore, the ministry has partnered with the Ministry of Interior to offer free medical examinations for seniors in care homes at police hospitals throughout October.
The Ministry of Social Solidarity is working with the Ministry of Health and Population to conduct on-site visits to various elderly care homes across governorates. These visits aim to provide early detection and examination services for diseases and health issues prevalent among seniors. The services include initiatives by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for healthcare, early disease detection, and support for women's health.
The ministry protects seniors from violence, neglect, and exploitation by receiving and processing complaints, providing suitable solutions, and taking necessary actions. The ministry also emphasizes the importance of family care for seniors, promoting awareness about providing psychological and social support. Moreover, it supports elderly care homes, clubs, and service complexes, covering costs for transportation and other services.
The Ministry of Social Solidarity has established the Elderly Care Fund, as per Law 19 of 2024, to support elderly rights and enhance social protection services. The fund is led by Executive Director Ahood Wafi. This year, the first batch of graduates from the Dr. Abla El-Kahlawi Secondary Technical Institute for Nursing was produced, equipping them to care for seniors and Alzheimer's patients.
The ministry's vision for elderly care focuses on transitioning from care to empowerment and participation, ensuring seniors live a dignified and secure life. The ministry calls for enhanced partnership between families, civil society, government agencies, and society as a whole to create a supportive environment for seniors, built on respect, protection, and care.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity is committed to enhancing elderly care services through comprehensive support and protection.
- An integrated system for elderly care has been developed to ensure seniors receive necessary care and protection.
- The ministry's efforts prioritize elderly empowerment, participation, and a dignified life.
