President of the General Union of Charitable Societies, Amer Al-Khawaldeh, confirmed that the International Day of Older Persons, which falls on October 1 of each year, constitutes a national and humanitarian occasion to emphasize the importance of caring for the elderly, preserving their rights, and enhancing their participation in society, in appreciation of the efforts and experiences they have provided that contributed to building the family, society, and nation.
Al Khawaldeh pointed out in a statement to the Union, today, Friday, that the elderly represent a wealth of experience, knowledge, and values, and that caring for them is a shared responsibility that requires the integration of the efforts of official and private institutions, charities, and civil society organizations, in a way that provides them with a decent and safe life and enhances their social integration.
He stated that charities play an important role in serving the elderly through social and humanitarian programs and initiatives, and providing assistance, care, and psychological and social support, stressing the importance of developing these programs in a way that suits their needs and enhances their quality of life.
He said that the Federation gives special attention to the elderly category within its directions and programs, and supports the efforts of charitable organizations in various governorates of the Kingdom to provide the necessary services and support for them, calling for expanding the scope of partnerships with the relevant authorities to develop the services provided to this category.
He stressed that caring for the elderly should not be limited to providing assistance, but rather should be based on empowering them, involving them, and benefiting from their expertise and experiences, in a way that enhances their sense of appreciation and belonging and maintains their active role in society.
He pointed out the importance of enhancing community awareness of the rights of the elderly, confronting the forms of neglect and social isolation to which they may be exposed, and consolidating the values of righteousness, solidarity and compassion among members of society, especially within the family as it is the primary environment for care and support.
He called on institutions, bodies and associations to continue implementing initiatives and programs targeting the elderly, and to enhance volunteer work directed at serving them, stressing that interest in this group reflects the level of cohesion and solidarity in society, and embodies the human and social values that Jordan is keen on.
He stressed the need to continue national efforts aimed at providing a suitable environment for the elderly, improving the level of health and social services provided to them, and enhancing their participation in public life, in a way that guarantees them a decent life commensurate with what they have provided throughout their years of giving.