While the senior citizens populace is observed to be increasing day by day, the country needs better institutions to facilitate them, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The President made this remark while speaking at a function held at the Faculty of Health Sciences to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Aged Care Maldives on Saturday evening.

As such, President Solih said that while some senior citizens are brought under the care of the state, the country does not have adequate institutions to facilitate them with a better life.

He went on to stress on the importance of public cooperation in expanding the facilities for the betterment of senior citizens.

“I believe that the center in Guraidhoo island is not the best place to facilitate senior citizens. We need a better, well-facilitated institution for senior citizens. We need a place where health screening and such services are made available for senior citizens” said Solih.

Further, Solih emphasized on the importance of paving way for them to have an active lifestyle instead of just keeping them indoors with their monthly allowance. He added that aging does not limit one from keeping fit and active and that an active lifestyle will repel health complications.

Also, the President urged everyone to recognize the efforts of senior citizens as well as their invaluable services to the nation and appreciate them in order to ensure they have a better life.

In this regard, Solih praised and appreciated the founder member of Age Care Maldives, Dr. Aminath Jameela, her spouse Mr. Mohamed Ismail and other members of the center, congratulating them for the achievement of providing 15 years of continuous services.

During the event, First Lady Fazna Ahmed had conferred a plaque of appreciation for the members who had devotedly served for more than 10 years as well as shown excellences in serving Aged Care Maldives.

Aged Care Maldives is a nonprofit and a non-governmental organization that focuses on the needs of the senior populace and their families. Aged Care Maldives aims is to promote healthy aging, encourage elders to be contributing members of the community and to assist those in need to maintain their individuality.

The event was joined by the First Couple, Vice President and his spouse, Ministers of the Cabinet as well as senior government employees.