UAE hosted a workshop aimed at developing a national response plan for dementia to help older patients to live healthy, independent lives.
The recent workshop focused on key metrics outlined in the WHO’s “Decade of Healthy Ageing” initiative, a 10-year program emphasizing enhanced access to healthcare for older individuals, promoting healthy habits, and fostering research and innovation in ageing. Additionally, aiming to ensure social inclusion and improve the quality of life through integrated policies and programs.
WHO defines healthy ageing as the process of developing and maintaining functional abilities that enable well-being in older age. These would include physical fitness, mental health, and social engagement. Approximately 50 million people globally are currently living with dementia, a figure projected to triple by 2050, according to WHO.
Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, attended the event and highlighted the UAE’s National Framework for Healthy Ageing. He said, “Spanning from 2025 to 2030, this framework includes several initiatives aimed at fostering an age-friendly environment where older adults can lead healthy, active, and independent lives. It also ensures they can contribute meaningfully to society, uphold their rights, and live with dignity and respect, thereby establishing the UAE as a front-runner in promoting active and healthy ageing.”
Dr. Al Rand noted that the UAE has long been a leader in this area, having implemented the National Policy for Senior Emiratis. This ensures seniors receiving the necessary support to lead dignified lives, including therapeutic, rehabilitation, and social services. Reflecting the deep-rooted values and culture of the Emirati people, this policy aims to instil these noble values in future generations, promoting respect and care for the elderly.
