UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Launches Barakatna Initiative For Senior Citizens' Wellbeing
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has introduced Barakatna, a programme to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens in Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to strengthen family bonds and social unity. The launch occurred at Qasr Al Bahr, attended by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and other dignitaries.
The initiative is managed by the Department of Community Development in partnership with the Family Development Foundation and other social sector organisations. It focuses on improving home care efficiency for seniors within their families, ensuring a stable and healthy life. The programme reflects the UAE's appreciation for senior citizens' contributions to national progress.
Barakatna aims to strengthen family ties through a comprehensive community service system. This system supports individuals in caring for their elderly relatives while balancing personal, professional, and social responsibilities. The services aim to foster family cohesion, contributing to a more united society that mirrors the UAE's core values.
H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed highlighted the importance of this initiative as part of ongoing efforts to support senior citizens' dignity and wellbeing. He emphasised their role as vital members of society whose wisdom guides younger generations. Their dedication inspires others to continue the nation's development journey.
The programme includes six key services implemented by various Abu Dhabi social sector entities such as the Department of Community Development and the Family Development Foundation. These services are designed to ensure senior citizens' wellbeing while promoting family cohesion.
Among these services is Temporary Alternative Care for Senior Citizens when families cannot provide care. Home Improvements for Senior Citizens supports caregivers in enhancing facilities used by seniors. Additionally, housing loan repayment terms can be extended by five years to alleviate financial pressures on caregivers.
Leadership Support
H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan endorsed Barakatna's services and programmes, affirming that supporting senior citizens is not just a social priority but a deeply rooted value in the UAE. This respect for elders instils appreciation for those who laid the foundations of national progress.
The Flexible Work Systems for Parents and Caregivers service allows caregivers to balance their duties effectively under specific conditions and standards. This flexibility enables them to care for their parents efficiently while managing other responsibilities.
The launch event was attended by several officials, including H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President; Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport; and Ahmed Tamim Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Department of Government Enablement.
With inputs from WAM
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