Manama: Osama bin Saleh Alalawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the National Committee for the Elderly, affirmed that the International Day of Older Persons, observed on October 1, is an occasion to pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of senior citizens in serving their families, community, and nation.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Kingdom of Bahrain, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, attaches great importance to the welfare of senior citizens. This is achieved through the adoption of national policies and legislation that ensure their security, wellbeing, and continued active participation in society.
The minister noted that the Ministry of Social Development continues to advance its efforts to support older persons by fostering community partnerships, operating day-care centres for parents across the governorates, and providing social and recreational programmes that strengthen family and social ties. He added that the ministry is also committed to further developing the range of services available to senior citizens to meet their evolving needs.
Alalawi emphasised that caring for older persons is a national responsibility that reflects the Bahraini society's values of solidarity and loyalty. He underlined the ministry's commitment to working with various partners to enhance care services in line with international best practices.