MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Muhammadiyah plays a vital role in addressing the issues of the elderly, recognizing it as a significant national concern. By taking proactive measures, these issues can be prevented from becoming serious problems. It is crucial for the government and all elements of society to address the demographic changes by implementing various positive programs that enable the elderly to remain active and productive members of society.
“In 2022, the number of the elderly reached 27 million, accounting for 10.48% of the total population. By 2045, this number is estimated to increase to 63.3 million or 19.9% of the total population. In light of these statistics, Muhammadiyah envisions the elderly not as burdens, but as valuable contributors to the nation’s development,” said Mariman Darto, the Chair of the Muhammadiyah Council for Social Welfare Development (MPKS) at the 27th National Elderly Day commemoration on Tuesday (6/6) at the RSIJ Pondok Kopi Hall.
To address these concerns, the MPKS, in collaboration with RSIJ Pondok Kopi, the Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Regional Board of Jakarta, and the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, organized a range of activities. These activities included healthy exercise for the elderly, health check-ups, the distribution of assistive devices for the elderly by the Ministry of Social Affairs, and a Small and Medium Enterprises bazaar by the Aisyiyah Regnoal Board of Jakarta.
“We express our gratitude to Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah for carrying out these beneficial activities for the elderly,” said Umi Sjarqiah, the CEO of RSIJ Pondok. Umi hoped the continuation of this collaboration in the future.
Furthermore, Faozan Amar, the Special Staff to the Minister of Social Affairs, expressed appreciation for Muhammadiyah’s dedication to caring for the elderly. he emphasized the importance of all elements of society sharing the same care and respect, believing that it would contribute to the dignity of the nation.
By actively addressing the issues faced by the elderly and fostering a society that values their contributions, Muhammadiyah aims to create a more inclusive and dignified Indonesia.