SSSD receives Qatar's Ehsan center delegation

October 16, 2025 / 11:28 AM

Sharjah 24: Sharjah Social Services Department’s Elderly Care Home recently welcomed a group of visitors from a center in Qatar called Ehsan, which focuses on helping and supporting older adults. The group was led by Manal Ahmed Al-Mannai, who is the center's director. They were greeted by Maryam Al-Qatari, the director of the Elderly Care Home, along with several other managers from the department. The purpose of their visit was to learn about the different services and support that the Sharjah department offers to enhance the lives of elderly residents.

Dedication

Al-Qatari examined the services at a home for elderly residents aged 60 and above without caregivers. Since its opening in 1986, the home has focused on high-quality medical care, offering services like medical check-ups, nursing care, physiotherapy, and a pharmacy. It organizes various social activities and events to promote engagement and enrichment for both permanent residents and daytime visitors.

The dedicated medical team, including nurses and specialists available 24/7, ensures comprehensive healthcare. The home emphasizes physical therapy to help improve residents' mobility and aims to create a supportive environment for emotional, social, and health needs. Additionally, they advocate for residents' rights, manage finances, and assist in reconnecting them with families, committed to ensuring dignity and care for all.

Nurturing environment

Asmaa Al-Khudari, who leads the office dedicated to older residents, shared its mission to create a welcoming environment where they can enjoy a good quality of life and engage with the community. This initiative is part of Sharjah’s commitment since joining the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities in September 2016.

The office focuses on improving services in areas like parks, transportation, and social activities, ensuring older citizens are respected and involved in society. They aim to raise awareness about the growing older population due to demographic changes and healthcare advancements.

Supported by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sharjah is the only Arab city in this global network, and the office is devoted to enhancing services for older residents and organizing events to celebrate them.

Empowering Elderly

Hamda Shaheen Al Mazmi from the Elderly Services Center shared Sharjah’s innovative plan to support older adults, focusing on comprehensive health, social, and recreational activities to promote independence and community connection for seniors over 60. The center offers home-based services to maintain seniors' abilities and assist caregivers, alongside daytime activities tailored to their needs.

Manal Al Mannai highlighted the Ehsan's initiatives for active aging, emphasizing independence and societal contribution for older adults. The center provides a holistic approach, addressing mental and physical well-being, social engagement, and educational programs to empower seniors to share their experiences.

The visit concluded with a tour and discussions on future collaborations to enhance services for elderly residents, reflecting the Ehsan’s commitment to improving the quality of life for seniors in the Gulf region.