Community Development Authority celebrates International Day for Elderly
Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Dubai, 1 October 2011: Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai organised a special evening to mark the International Day for the Elderly, which falls on October 1 every year.
The celebrations were part of CDA’s efforts to establish a cohesive community where people can enjoy sustainable prosperity, in addition to highlighting the great role played by the elderly in the development of the UAE.
"The UAE leadership realises the importance of providing social care to the elderly as citizens are the cornerstone of any development. The UAE has always provided decent living conditions for the elderly as we are obliged to pay back to a generation that sacrificed a lot for the country,” said His Excellency Khaled Al Kamda, Director General of CDA.
"The integration of the elderly in the society is of great importance. Their knowledge and experience represent a rich legacy for the younger generation. They have also made significant contributions that paved the way for the renaissance of our nation today. CDA has recently launched Weleef, a home care programme for the elderly as part of integrating them into the society,” His Excellency added.
The evening provided an excellent opportunity for the participants to connect with the elderly people who came on CDA’s invitation as well as a number of Weleef volunteers who are dedicating their time and efforts to integrating the elderly.
The evening also included a video show highlighting the achievements of the Weleef programme since its launch in May 2011. The programme has so far benefited 66 elderly people, and the number of volunteers has reached 31.
"This evening reflects CDA’s commitment to provide all possible social welfare to one of the most deserving groups in the society. The CDA has launched an integrated programme to foster and protect the elderly in Dubai by offering services and necessary care in their homes, in addition to training and educating service providers on the best practices in dealing with the elderly,” said Sheikh Maktoum Bin Butti Al Maktoum, CEO, Social Care, CDA.
According to the United Nations, "one in every 10 persons is now 60 years or older. By the year 2050, one of five will be 60 years or older; by 2150, it will be one of three persons.” Ageing populations will be one of the major issues in developing countries, which will see a simultaneous drop in the number of children.