Support for Elder Persons : Commemorative event for the International Day of Older Persons

Commemorative event for the International Day of Older Persons was held at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement on October 1st. Union Minister Dr. Soe Win in his capacity as Chairman of Myanmar Elder Affairs Committee along with the Deputy Ministers and concerned officials attended the event.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister highlighted the increasing amount of elderly persons around the world due to better health care services. According to 2024 housing census and population in Myanmar, 12 percent of country’s population is elderly persons with 60 years and above and the percentage could be rise to about 20 percent in 2025.

He added that plans are underway to draft policies and plans for elderly people based on different regions, religious beliefs, culture, tradition and fund. This year's celebration was held under the theme “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights”.

To provide better lifestyle for elderly persons, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement is supporting technologies, providing cash assistance to the Homes for the Aged, granting permits to establish Homes for the Aged and pension withdrawal.

During the ceremony, 2 eldest persons across the country were presented with 1 million kyats each. After screening the video clip of providing health care services and rights for elder persons, the Union Minister, Deputy Ministers and committee members provided consumer goods, medicines and cash assistance to attended elderly individuals.