Saudi Shoura Council drafts law to protect rights of elderly

It aims to spread awareness about the rights of elderly people in society. The Shoura Council called for the implementation of a system to promote volunteer activities to serve the elderly and offering special facilities for them in public and commercial places, residential areas, and mosques.

The draft law makes it clear that elderly people have the right to live with their families, who are obligated to take care of their physical and emotional needs and preservation of their dignity.

One of the articles of the law stipulates that it is not permissible to send an older individual to a shelter or old house without his or her consent.

It would also be pertinent to mention here that the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development provides free statutory assistance to the elderly and they are exempted from paying any fees or charges per the Kingdom’s Elderly Rights and Care System Project.

The council also urged the private sector to play its role by establishing community centers and social clubs for older people and provide them a healthy environment.

The Shoura Council also discussed other matters related to energy and civic services.