Abu Dhabi, Oct. 2 (BNA): The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, affirmed that the annual celebration of the International Day of Older Persons on October 1 is not merely a symbolic event. Rather, it serves as a reminder of the esteemed position of older persons, an opportunity to honor their lifelong contributions, and a moment to acknowledge their pivotal role in building societies, nurturing generations, and upholding values.

In a statement posted on its website marking this occasion, the Council underscored that Islam accords the elderly an exalted and dignified status.

The Muslim Council of Elders further highlighted the importance of safeguarding the dignity of older persons, recognising them as the living memory of humanity and the custodians of its identity and accumulated wisdom. The Council emphasised that passing down such wisdom and experience across generations strengthens societies in times of crisis and lays the groundwork for a more balanced and resilient future. It called for the enactment of laws and policies that ensure a dignified life for older persons, including access to comprehensive health, social, and psychological care, as well as programmes that promote their active participation in community life in appreciation of their worth and in affirmation of their right to live with dignity.

The Muslim Council of Elders also reaffirmed its firm commitment to protecting the rights of older persons. In May of this year, it launched, in collaboration with the Catholic Church and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), a global document in support of older persons and the preservation of their dignity. This initiative presents a unified vision aimed at strengthening collective efforts to support the elderly and uphold their rights. It also seeks to shield them from all forms of discrimination, abuse, exploitation, and neglect, and to provide effective remedies where such violations occur. Moreover, it calls for empowering older persons to make informed choices for themselves and their families, and for ensuring access to high-quality healthcare that responds to their personal needs and respects their individual preferences.

N.B, N.N, S.E