National Symposium Begins to Boost Elderly Health and Social Protection
Symposium launched to strengthen health services for senior citizens | Photo: Ministry of Health
A two-day symposium aimed at strengthening health and social security for senior citizens has commenced, bringing together government ministries, United Nations agencies and key stakeholders to develop the national strategy.
The high-level forum includes consultations focused on addressing the evolving needs of the ageing population, as highlighted by the 2020 census, which indicates that the Maldives is transitioning towards an older demographic structure.
Director General of Health Services Dr Ahmed Ashraf stated that the symposium is centred on identifying measures to ensure older people maintain good health for longer, including access to medical care, preventive services, proper nutrition and mental health support.
He noted that discussions would include a detailed assessment of the current situation in the Maldives, with a focus on identifying gaps in services, and that the findings would contribute directly to the National Development Plan.
Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko highlighted the global relevance of ageing populations, noting that both developed and developing countries must prepare for demographic shifts and improve services and facilities for elderly citizens.
During the opening ceremony, Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim officially launched a new 10-year Dementia Action Plan, marking a key step in strengthening long-term healthcare planning.
The symposium and the launch of the action plan reflect ongoing efforts to enhance and future-proof health services in the Maldives, with a focus on improving the wellbeing and quality of life of senior citizens.
