Government

In a continued effort to enhance the well-being of senior citizens, the Family Development Foundation (FDF) has launched a series of interactive dialogue forums across Abu Dhabi for the year 2025. The initiative aims to amplify the voices of the elderly, allowing them to shape the future of social services while reflecting their unique needs, aspirations, and experiences.

FDF has already conducted seven out of the planned sixteen forums this year, engaging 154 senior citizens, their caregivers, and community partners. This follows the success of the 2024 edition, which saw nine sessions and participation from 273 individuals. These sessions are part of a broader strategy to promote inclusive community planning and develop policies that better serve the senior population.

According to H.E. Abdulrahman Al Baloushi, Director of Strategic Planning and Institutional Development at FDF, the forums are a vital platform for senior citizens to voice their concerns and directly contribute to service development. “The sessions align with our revised mandates and the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, 'Mother of the Nation,' who continues to champion the dignity and societal contributions of the elderly,” he stated.

Al Baloushi emphasized that the dialogue sessions focus on identifying current gaps, assessing family preparedness, and shaping high-quality, evidence-based social policies. He explained that each forum leverages the focus group method, with sessions beginning with goal-setting presentations followed by breakout discussions. These are guided by trained staff and analyzed using the Mentimeter system, ensuring transparent and scientific data collection.

The first session, held in Al Mirfa Centre in February, gathered 23 senior participants and focused on assessing the needs of senior citizens. The discussions highlighted key demands such as facility upgrades, a new physiotherapy center, recreational amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, and majlis, and the organization of more social events like outings and competitions.

Muneera Majid Al Ali, Director of the Research and Studies Department at FDF, shared insights into the foundation’s research-driven approach. “We blend both qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure our programs address real community needs. These forums are among our most powerful tools to gather meaningful feedback,” she said.

Al Ali added that participants ranked health services as their top priority, followed by services under the Social Forum and My Happiness Forum. Many confirmed that current offerings have had a positive impact on their physical, mental, and social well-being. Additionally, social media emerged as the most effective communication tool for engaging with the Foundation, ahead of traditional channels like phone and website.

Key recommendations from the forums include maintaining the momentum of community engagement, prioritizing core services aligned with elderly preferences, and expanding the use of digital platforms to raise awareness and foster volunteerism among senior citizens. The findings also encourage tailored program delivery to further promote social integration and respect for elderly contributions.

The Family Development Foundation reiterated its commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable services that ensure dignity and a high quality of life for elderly residents. By placing senior citizens at the heart of decision-making processes, FDF continues to lead efforts in policy innovation, social research, and community development that reflect genuine societal appreciation for the older generation.

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