Senior Citizens  POLICY
Population ageing which has been over the past decades posing serious challenges, remains one of the most neglected issues in developing countries. Older people are commonly considered as being a vulnerable or potentially vulnerable group and at present very little is done to meet their particular needs, or to recognize their unique capabilities and contributions. Presently there are about 117,000 senior citizens out of a population of 1.2 million. Our elders should be given due recognition and respect for the special role played by them in the making of modern Mauritius. In this context, the Ministry launched its National Policy on Elderly in May 2001 which has as theme "Ageing with dignity". Mauritius is of the first African countries to formulate such an official Plan of Action for the elderly. The National Policy confirms to a large extent the principles guiding the Vienna Plan of Action on Ageing (1982) and the UN Principles for older people (1991). This National Policy document redefines the priorities and policies which will effectively promote the empowerment and general welfare of our elderly in this new millennium, and is another example of Government's commitment in the consolidation of the Welfare State. The Policy initiatives and advocacy evolve around the following theme: -
Preparation for Retirement -
Health & Nutrition -
Housing -
Income Security -
Employment -
Inter-generation Relationship -
Social Welfare and Leisure & Physical activities -
Institutional Care The Recreation Centre at Pointe aux Sables The Ministry has set up a Recreational Centre for the Elderly at Pointe aux Sables. It comprises of a residential complex with kitchen, dining room, a Conference Hall and facilities for recreational activities such as indoor games, film shows, cultural programmes, physical exercises with the help of the keep-fit equipment, etc. Talks on health issues are also held at the centre. The centre can accommodate up to 100 persons at a time. The centre has accommodated over 35,000 elderly, from around the country as at date. Request for residential stays can be made either at the Centre at Pointe aux Sables on 234 1316, or 234 1384 and by calling in person or at the Senior Citizens Council on the 13th Floor, Sterling House, Port-Louis Special Fund for the Welfare of the Elderly The Special Fund for the Welfare of the Elderly was set up in July last year under the Finance and Audit Act with the main objective to provide financial assistance for the implementation of projects for the benefit of the elderly and for the maintenance and management of recreation centres or such other centres for the elderly. The Fund consists of donations, contribution and grants and any other sum which may lawfully accrue to it. Any contribution is welcomed. The Committee consists of a Chairperson and not more than 5 other members appointed by the Minister. | 
