Many older Maldivians have long felt that society’s fast pace left them behind. Their stories often included limited public spaces, weak social support, or little formal recognition. But since 17 February 2024, those stories are changing with the opening of Israhvehinge Naadhee, inaugurated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajida Mohamed under the “Hafuthaa 14” roadmap. This dedicated centre aims to make senior citizens more visible in national life, and to deliver care, support, and dignity.

In the year since its opening, Israhvehinge Naadhee has grown into a hub of activity and support. Celebrating its first anniversary in 2025, the centre introduced a Membership Card for those aged 55 and above. The card provides priority access to programmes, discounts at partner clinics and stores, and streamlined appointments, giving senior citizens tangible benefits alongside a sense of belonging. Over that first year, more than 300 programmes were organised, drawing in over 7,000 participants.

The range of activities reflects a broad understanding of senior citizens’ needs. Sessions on healthy living and light exercise sit alongside cultural gatherings and religious discussions, while workshops on dementia awareness and digital literacy tackle emerging challenges. Recognising that emotional well-being is just as important, the centre has also hosted mental health awareness sessions with experts from the Maldives Mental Health Association, helping older residents cope with stress, isolation, and age-related mental health issues.

At the same time, the centre has adapted to the realities of a digital age. Working with the Maldives Police Service’s Anti-Scam Centre, Israhvehinge Naadhee has conducted scam-awareness sessions in Malé and Hulhumalé, equipping elders with the tools to recognise and avoid online fraud. Such initiatives underline the centre’s role not only as a social hub, but also as a place of protection and empowerment.

The Government has signalled that Israhvehinge Naadhee will continue to evolve. In March 2025, President Dr Muizzu met with the Maldives Senior Citizens Association to discuss how the centre could be strengthened further. The talks focused on raising participation, addressing operational challenges, and supporting NGOs that work with the elderly. The President reaffirmed that his Administration sees safeguarding the happiness and dignity of senior citizens as a national responsibility.

Taken together, these steps represent a shift in how Maldivians view ageing. Where once the elderly were at risk of being overlooked, Israhvehinge Naadhee has placed them at the centre of community life. By combining health, social, cultural, and digital programmes under one roof, the initiative has given senior citizens not just attention but also dignity.

For many participants, the difference is deeply personal: a safe place to reconnect with peers, to learn new skills, and to feel valued in their later years. For the nation, the centre is a reminder that development is measured not only in roads and terminals, but also in compassion and inclusion. With Israhvehinge Naadhee, the Maldives is building a society that honours its elders as part of its future, not just its past.