Al-Hawila: Strengthening legislation and laws to protect the rights of the elderly and ensure their priority in services

Tarek Arabi: Kuwait’s Minister of Social Affairs, Labor, and Social Development, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, affirmed that caring for and attending to the elderly is not merely a moral or humanitarian duty, but a fundamental pillar in the state’s development plans and the Ministry’s strategy. This is based on our conviction that quality of life is not tied to a specific age, but is a comprehensive journey across all life stages, leading to a better future. Flourishing societies do not detach from their roots; rather, they draw upon them as a cornerstone for social cohesion.

This statement was made during her address on the occasion of World Elderly Day yesterday morning, which she described as a cherished occasion that embodies the highest meanings of loyalty and gratitude to a generation that contributed greatly, witnessed our country’s journey, and was an integral partner in shaping its identity.

She added that this day is not merely a passing celebration on our annual agenda, but a moment of reverence, appreciation, and renewal of commitment before our fathers and mothers of the pioneering generation. “You are the blessing in our homes, wisdom in our communities, and the living memory of our country,” she said.

Al-Huwail stated that, reflecting this vision and in implementation of the directives of the Supreme Leadership under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the State of Kuwait continues its humanitarian approach to preserving human dignity and enhancing quality of life. The Ministry of Social Affairs is working to develop an integrated care system encompassing health, psychological, and social aspects, ensuring a dignified and stable life for our elderly wherever they are. This includes facilitating their stay within their family environment by providing various home-care services, which benefit more than 4,000 beneficiaries across different care centers.

She continued, “The Ministry is also working to strengthen legislation and laws that protect the rights of the elderly and ensure their priority in accessing all government services with ease and efficiency. Additionally, we are launching community initiatives aimed at integrating the life and professional experiences of the elderly into the development process, and building bridges for knowledge exchange with younger generations.”

Al-Huwail emphasized that our vision for the elderly does not focus on looking back at the years they have lived, but rather on what lies ahead. Therefore, the coming phase should move beyond the narrow concept of traditional, rigid care to a broader concept based on empowering their capabilities and sustaining their intellectual and cognitive contributions. This will be achieved by expanding their participation, listening to their perspectives, and responding to their aspirations and needs, thereby enhancing their independence.

Addressing parents directly, Al-Huwail said, “You are not on the periphery of life; rather, you are at the heart of our concern and at the forefront of our priorities. In the Ministry of Social Affairs, and with the guidance and support of our wise leadership, we will spare no effort in providing everything that ensures your dignity, comfort, and peace of mind, in return for the kindness you have shown throughout the decades of your lives.”

In conclusion of her speech, Al-Huwail expressed her sincere gratitude and appreciation to every family that shelters its elders, to every hand that cares for them, to all professionals working in this humanitarian field, and to every entity that contributed to supporting national efforts aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the elderly in the State of Kuwait.