Abu Dhabi Launches Key Services Under ‘Barakatna’ Initiative

Abu Dhabi Launches Comprehensive Services for Older Citizens Under the ‘Barakatna’ Initiative

The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with the Family Development Foundation, has launched the “Barakatna” initiative, a series of essential services and activities designed to improve the health of older persons and their caregivers. The initiative aims to strengthen the city’s commitment to social cohesion and social care by integrating the support of older citizens into the social fabric.

During the “Year of the Community”, the “Barakatna” project is in line with the leadership’s goal of placing older citizens at the center of society and honoring their important contributions to the country’s progress. The project enhances Abu Dhabi’s social development policy by providing specialized services that ensure older citizens are not only cared for, but also continue to participate in society.

Developed in close collaboration with other government agencies, the “Barakatna” project offers six new essential services. These programs aim to improve the quality of life of older citizens and empower caregivers.

Key services launched: Temporary Respite Care for older Citizens
The service, run by the Family Development Foundation, offers caregivers the opportunity to set up short-term care for their older people loved ones so that they can focus on their own duties. Up to eight hours of care are given once a day, 48 days a year, to assist caregivers manage their time and feel less stressed.

Flexible Work Policies for Caregivers

The Government Empowerment Authority is offering caregivers of older citizens a formal certificate that allows them to access flexible working hours. This policy encourages a better work-life balance by assisting caregivers in juggling their professional obligations with caregiving responsibilities.

Older Citizens Home Modifications

Families can apply for permits to make necessary structural changes to their homes through the Municipalities and Transport Department. This service ensures that older citizens live in a peaceful, safe and comfortable environment in their family homes.

Older Home Improvements

To ensure that older live in a safe and comfortable environment, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority will also assist with home renovations and improvements.

Home Loan Repayment Extension

This service reduces the financial burden on families caring for older family members by giving caregivers the opportunity to extend their home loan repayment period by an additional five years.

Subsidies for Housing Close to Family

To promote stronger family unity and provide better care for older members, Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre is working with Housing Authority to enable families to sell and buy properties close to their older people relatives.

Comprehensive Family Support Framework

Abu Dhabi’s “Barakatna” project is the first step in a larger plan to develop family-oriented laws and services that will improve homes and support many aspects of society. The initiative’s all-encompassing strategy ensures that older citizens and their caregivers receive integrated support to improve their quality of life. In addition to meeting the needs of older residents, Abu Dhabi is also promoting a sense of community and ensuring that families are not burdened by caregiving through this project.

This collaborative effort between several government agencies demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, caring and socially conscious society and lays the foundation for future projects that will further enhance the well-being of all citizens.