Public healthcare partners collaborate to mark International Day of Older Persons

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) last week celebrated the International Day of Older Persons with activities. The activities, according to an official statement from HMC, were held on October 1-2 inviting the community to engage in a series of impactful events aimed at promoting healthy ageing. This year’s theme, 'Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide', emphasised the significance of recognising the contributions of older persons while fostering an environment that supports their health and well-being.

The objectives of the celebration centred around several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of older persons. First, the events sought to raise awareness within the community about the Age Friendly Health System and the transformative 4Ms Framework—What Matters, Mobility, Mentation, and Medication—implemented by the AGU-Medical Care and Research Centre (MCRC).

Additionally, valuable information was provided on healthy ageing and lifestyle factors specifically addressing prevalent health conditions among older adults, such as balance issues and falls. The celebration also aimed to encourage community engagement fostering a society that values and supports older adults through active participation and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

Collaboration was another crucial aspect, as HMC partnered with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) to increase awareness and resources available for older persons. The programme included informative sessions led by healthcare experts, focusing on best practices for caring for the elderly at home and strategies to enhance their quality of life.

Dr Hanadi al-Hamad, HMC’s Deputy Chief for Long-Term Care, Rehabilitation and Geriatric Care and Medical Director of Rumailah Hospital and Qatar Rehabilitation Institute, highlighted the significance of this year’s theme. “This year’s theme reminded us to reflect on the invaluable contributions of older persons in our society and to take action in creating supportive environments for their health and well-being, enabling them to live dignified lives,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of community involvement, inviting everyone to join in fostering a society that values and supports older adults. “By promoting active engagement and healthy lifestyles, we can enhance the quality of life for our seniors and celebrate their vital role within our communities,” she stated.

The awareness programme was organised by HMC’s Department of Geriatrics and Long-Term Care, a WHO Collaborating Centre for Healthy Ageing and Dementia. The events took place at Rumailah Hospital and MCRC while bringing together healthcare professionals, elderly care teams and the public to learn about age-related health concerns and the benefits of active, healthy lifestyles.

Director of Public Relations and Communications Department at MoPH Alyaa al-Kuwari said that International Day of Older Persons is an occasion to highlight the importance of the role of older persons in society and to confirm our commitment to providing them with the best healthcare that meets all their needs in a comprehensive manner. “This is reflected in the partnership between the health sector institutions in the state and various relevant institutions, in order to create a supportive environment that guarantees them a healthier and happier life," she said.

Director of Integrated Services and Continuity of Care at PHCC Dr Durriya al-Qahtani noted that the corporation is so proud of its home healthcare service as it is one of the leading services provided by it for the elderly through its health centres throughout the country with care delivered in line with the national strategy for health care. “Home health care services include the development of appropriate preventive and treatment plans for the elderly in co-operation with the patient, their family and caregivers, according to the patient's needs,” she said.

Recognising the International Day of Older Persons aligned seamlessly with Qatar's Vision 2030, which underscores the importance of a healthy population as a key pillar of national development. By prioritising the health and well-being of older persons, the event contributed to the broader goals of sustainable development, social inclusion, and enhanced quality of life for all citizens. This commitment reflects a collective vision of a society where every individual, regardless of age, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.