الشارقة 24 – وام:
In a heartfelt address, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known as the “Mother of the Emirates,” reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to its senior citizens, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation’s development and growth. She emphasised that the respect and care for the elderly stem from a deep appreciation of their role and sacrifices throughout the years.
A Legacy of Commitment
Sheikha Fatima highlighted that senior citizens are integral partners in the nation’s construction, having passionately contributed to the UAE’s progress. “For this reason, we prioritise their care at the core of the Family Development Foundation,” she stated. Her Highness emphasised the need for tailored services and initiatives that uphold their dignity, enhance their independence, and improve their quality of life, thereby amplifying their role in both family and society.
Reflecting on the wisdom of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, she noted that he viewed the elderly as the nation’s memory and foundation. “He instilled in us that loyalty to those who dedicated their lives to our country is not merely a matter of respect; it is a fundamental value and a responsibility passed down through generations,” she affirmed.
The Value of Experience
Sheikha Fatima articulated that the guidance and experiences of the elderly represent a precious national asset. “We are committed to ensuring that this heritage remains influential,” she declared. By learning from their experiences, families can instil values of belonging, responsibility, and generosity in younger generations, effectively bridging the gap between ages.
In her remarks, she noted that the care for older citizens in the UAE is regarded as a developmental stage worthy of a proactive approach. This includes creating a supportive environment and services that meet their evolving needs, allowing them to lead lives with dignity and independence.
Innovations for Improvement
Encouraging new ideas that enhance the lives of senior citizens, Sheikha Fatima called on relevant institutions to adopt innovative solutions that cater to their changing needs. She stated that providing the elderly with a voice in matters affecting them is paramount and that their insights should be integrated into the development of services aimed at improving their quality of life.
“We advise children to prioritise spending time with their parents over material gifts,” she advised, highlighting that affection and companionship are essential during their elder years. “Companionship brings them joy, and care ensures they remain cherished and valued,” she expressed.
Strengthening Community Bonds
Sheikha Fatima reiterated the importance of fostering a societal culture that views aging as a continuation of life filled with potential. “We want our senior citizens to thrive in a society that values their contributions and expands opportunities for their engagement,” she said, emphasising the mutual learning between generations.
Acknowledging the rich life experiences of seniors, she remarked that intergenerational dialogue fosters understanding and strengthens familial ties. “When the older generation shares their wisdom with the youth, it transcends mere ideas; it brings hearts closer, creating a more united and resilient community,” she concluded.