Page 48 - FDF PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

P. 48

5/19/25, 11:22 AM FDF holds a dialogue session in conjunction with the International Day of Families - Middle East Business News and Information - …
Intergenerational Solidarity:

Her Excellency Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department at FDF, delivered a compelling
speech titled ‘Intergenerational Solidarity: A Positive Approach to Supporting Family Cohesion and Enhancing National
Identity.’ During the speech, she articulated the profound significance of fostering bonds between generations, and
stated, “Intergenerational solidarity is critical in strengthening family unity and national identity by bridging the gap
between the elderly and youth. This exchange of wisdom and values fosters communal belonging while also reinforcing
loyalty to the nation in today’s rapidly changing societal landscape.”

H.E. Al Ali added, “The FDF is committed to promoting family solidarity through innovative programs that encourage
constructive dialogue and the intergenerational exchange of knowledge and ethics. These efforts are instrumental in
building stable families and a harmonious society.”

Expanding on the concept, H.E. Al Ali described intergenerational solidarity as a comprehensive strategy that promotes
social cohesiveness and long-term sustainability. She also underlined that fostering intergenerational relationships is
essential to preserving the UAE’s moral and cultural legacy, much beyond a familial obligation. She went on to praise
the FDF’s current efforts to help seniors and families while improving household stability, and all while integrating
solidarity into the fabric of society.

Safe Homes for Seniors:

Ms. Khawla Al Kaabi, Head of the Seniors Department at FDF, addressed the ‘Guide to Preparing Safe Homes for
Seniors’ during the session. According to Ms. Al Kaabi, the guide addresses the urgent need for senior-friendly living
spaces that encourage their independence while minimising everyday hazards such as falls or accidents within their
homes. The ultimate goal, she affirmed, is to enable senior citizens to live safely and comfortably in their own homes.

She provided a detailed overview of the guide prepared by FDF, which offers practical guidelines and technical
standards to assist families and caregivers in making necessary changes to their homes. This entails improving lighting,
rearranging the flooring, and adding support handles in key areas like hallways and restrooms. It was noted that the
guide includes recommendations that align with global best practices, reflecting FDF’s broader mission to create an
integrated, sustainable care system that ensures the overall well-being of seniors.