The Maldives has officially commenced a high-level symposium aimed at ensuring and sustaining health and social protection for the elderly population. The two-day event, which began today at the Maldives National University (MNU), brings together key stakeholders to address the evolving needs of senior citizens.

The symposium features participation from various government institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations. According to the Ministry of Health, the sessions will delve into a wide array of critical topics, including demographic trends, the physiological changes associated with aging, and the specific healthcare requirements of the elderly population.

Discussions will also focus on the challenges surrounding social protection, sustainable financing mechanisms, service delivery models, and workforce capacity. Furthermore, the symposium aims to identify strategies for enhancing mental health services, prevention efforts, and ensuring equitable access to high-quality long-term care.

A significant highlight of the opening ceremony was the official launch of a 10-year National Dementia Action Plan. The plan was inaugurated by the Minister of Health, Abdullah Nazim, marking a major policy step toward addressing age-related cognitive health in the Maldives.