Beirut:Former Health Minister Dr. Firass Abiad, alongside partners, has launched UNS (A Journey of Care), a new home-based elderly care initiative. The launch ceremony was attended by Social Affairs Minister Haneen Sayed, Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine, and various healthcare professionals.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, the UNS initiative is designed to provide personalized medical, psychological, and social support to elderly individuals, allowing them to maintain their dignity, comfort, and independence while staying in their homes.

Dr. Abiad noted the challenges faced by Lebanon's aging population, particularly in light of increased emigration which contributes to elderly isolation. He emphasized the need for coordinated community efforts to address these issues.

Co-founders Fadia Saadeh and Misbah Al-Khatib highlighted the initiative's dedication to delivering compassionate, professional care and supporting families, including those with members living abroad. The UNS program also provides free caregiver training, creates employment opportunities, and involves university students in volunteer activities.

Minister Sayed stressed the necessity for Lebanon to prepare for its demographic changes, pointing out that currently, around one in ten residents is over 65, a figure that could rise to one in four by the year 2050. She advocated for home care services to complement institutional care, which presently assists about 1,450 elderly individuals through ministry-contracted facilities, while ensuring the preservation of dignity, independence, and quality of care for the elderly.