Sharjah Leads As Global Example Of Age-Friendly City For Elderly Care

Guided by the vision and directives of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the Emirate has made a qualitative shift in its initiatives targeting people of all age groups and has developed an integrated strategy and precise methodology for a comprehensive infrastructure that supports the elderly and helps them to live their lives in comfort and to their full potential.

On September 13, 2016, Sharjah officially joined the World Health Organisation's Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities. This milestone made it the first Arab city to receive this membership, setting a precedent for sustainable care across generations. The emirate has been working diligently to implement these standards in all aspects of daily life for the elderly.

Asma Al Khudari, Director of the Sharjah Age-Friendly City Programme, emphasised the importance of Sharjah's steps and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly. She highlighted the involvement and cooperation of various institutions from both public and private sectors in integrating WHO's age-friendly city standards into their operations and services.

Sharjah is witnessing a tangible transformation towards establishing an infrastructure that prioritises the elderly. These efforts are evident in a series of improvements such as enhancing public transportation to facilitate its use by older adults. Additionally, walkways and sidewalks have been developed to ensure smooth and comfortable movements.

The emirate has also been training the elderly on how to navigate smart devices and the Internet. This initiative aims to bridge the digital gap and reduce social isolation among older adults. Through these measures, Sharjah continues to build a model for an age-friendly city that enhances independence and social interaction for its elderly residents.

Global Role Model

According to a report by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Sharjah is consolidating its position as a global role model in elderly care. The emirate has created an environment that improves the quality of life for older adults while adding dynamism to society as a whole. Advanced health facilities and safer infrastructure contribute significantly to community sustainability.

The emirate pays special attention to psychological and social care through community centres and cultural events. These initiatives aim to create interactive spaces that enhance participation among older adults, enabling them to be active members of society.

Healthcare System

Sharjah’s healthcare system is central to its vision of an age-friendly city. The emirate adopts a comprehensive approach that promotes mental and physical health while encouraging social participation among older adults. Advanced medical equipment tailored for elderly needs is available, along with initiatives like the Mobile Medical Clinic launched in 2017.

This clinic focuses on early diagnosis of chronic diseases and provides home nursing services, making healthcare more accessible without requiring travel to facilities. Additionally, partnerships with the private sector offer special benefits and discounts for individuals over sixty years old.

Intergenerational Communication

Al Khudari noted that Sharjah is pioneering social inclusion for older adults by recognising their emotional well-being. Various initiatives aim to build communication bridges between generations through activities that foster mutual understanding and respect. The emirate also produces television programmes to raise public awareness about appreciating older adults.

This commitment includes improving outdoor spaces, providing appropriate transportation services, developing suitable housing projects, enhancing community participation, promoting respect for older adults, activating their civic roles, and improving access to information.

The emirate’s extraordinary initiatives target all social segments ensuring future welfare programmes are enhanced. By doing so, Sharjah not only establishes itself as an age-friendly city but also empowers older adults in building a cohesive society.

Through these integrated efforts, Sharjah strengthens its position as an ideal city for decent living for older adults while establishing societal foundations that respect their experiences and needs.

With inputs from WAM