UAE: Fine, jail for mistreating, neglecting senior citizens
Neglecting duties towards senior citizens can result in prison time and fines between Dh10,000 and Dh50,000 or both. according to the UAE Public Prosecution.
According to the law, Emiratis aged 60 years or over are entitled to the following:
- The right to independence and privacy
- The right to protection from violence and abuse
- The right to an enabling environment, housing, education and work
- The right to social care including the provision of elderly community centres and social clubs
- The right to medical care including preventive health services, medical insurance, mobile nursing units and supportive medical devices
- The right of confidentiality of information pertaining to them
- The right to preferential treatment with respect to government transactions, facilities, social aid and medical services.
- Full medical, financial and educational care and must be registered in a dedicated database.
Offenders, whether family members or elderly care institutions, will face the penalties.
The law also punishes anyone who witnesses abuse but does not report it.
Caregivers who insult senior citizens will face stiff penalties.
Should a family face difficulties in providing care for elderly people, they are required to inform the Ministry of Community Development, care centres, the police and any other relevant departments. The same requirement is necessary should a senior citizen die or change their home address.
