Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi has issued executive regulations for Law No 58 of 2009 concerning the rights of elderly people, introducing new rules governing elderly care and accommodation services in institutions and day-care centres, emphasising the protection of seniors’ rights, and their dignity and independence.
The regulations stipulate that an elderly person may not be admitted to any care institution unless it is based on their personal wish and a written request from them, after verifying their eligibility.
Admission requests must not result from refusal by family members or caregivers to look after them.
The regulations also prohibit forcing elderly residents to remain in a care institution or compelling them to leave it.
Institutions are required to immediately notify the relevant authorities if an elderly person’s departure could pose a risk to their life or safety.
The new rules include health and administrative requirements for admitting elderly residents, including mandatory medical examinations to ensure they are free from infectious diseases.
The regulations also set licensing conditions for establishing and operating elderly care institutions and clubs, whether by individuals or corporate entities.
The ministry further required that the director of any institution must hold qualifications in care services, social work, or psychology, or possess no less than two years of practical experience, in addition to having sufficient financial resources to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Penalties outlined in the regulations allow authorities to begin with warnings and orders to rectify violations, escalating to placing institutions under ministry administration, temporary closure, or revocation of licences, while preserving the right of affected parties to appeal before the competent court.
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