Empowering Elders | Moul Mouj Health Centre inaugurated in Srinagar

Srinagar, June 14: In a significant step towards addressing the specialised healthcare needs of senior citizens, the Moul Mouj Health Centre (MMHC) was inaugurated in Srinagar on Friday.

This exclusive facility, an initiative of Kashmir Clinics, aims to provide holistic healthcare services for seniors, catering to their unique health requirements.

Specialist for Seniors and Head of Moul Mouj Health Centre, Dr Zubair Saleem delivered the keynote address at the inaugural function.

Emphasising the urgent need for such a facility, Dr Saleem said, “In our small capacity, we are taking this step of establishing this centre. Based on the privilege of treating over 30,000 seniors in the government and private sectors, I feel it is my responsibility to reach out to this vulnerable population, who are often financially dependent on others for their health needs. We aim to help them to age gracefully and provide them with the best possible healthcare while avoiding polypharmacy.”

Chairman and Founder of Kashmir Clinics Group, Dr Shakeel-ur-Rehman echoed Dr Saleem's sentiments. Speaking about his connection to the initiative, Dr Rehman said, “With my son and father in the audience, I affirm that this initiative is close to my heart, and I have no financial considerations for it. I will contribute my part to the significant cause of supporting the seniors in our society.”

Renowned Kashmiri writer, poet, and satirist, Zareef Ahmad Zareef also attended the event, expressing his happiness for the mission.

He highlighted the reciprocal responsibility between parents and their adult children, reinforcing the societal value of mutual support and care.

Former Advisor to Governor of J&K, Khurshid Ahmad Ganie underscored the importance of such initiatives in light of increasing life expectancy.

“This initiative is vital for our society, particularly for marginalised seniors. I insist on extending this initiative to other parts of Kashmir. I have attended many voluntary functions, but this one is special for a special cause, and I extend all my support for this mission,” he said.

At the inaugural function, families of legendary personalities were also honoured for their contributions to society.

Dr Ali Ahmad Fazili was recognised in memory of his father, Dr Ali Jan.

Masooda Jalal Rajpuri was felicitated for the contributions of her husband, Dr S Jalal, and Prof Agha Iqbal Ali was acknowledged for the exceptional service of his father, Dr Agha Ashraf Ali, to Kashmir.

President of Batmaloo Traders Association, Pir Imtiyaz Hussain addressed the financial struggles many seniors face in affording healthcare.

“This platform will provide holistic health services for seniors, eliminating the need for them to go from one doctor to another for their health needs,” he said.

The event, moderated by broadcaster Ishfaq Lone, emphasised the need for awareness and education about the importance of holistic health for seniors.

Representatives from various pensioners’ associations, prominent seniors, and other dignitaries from civil society were in attendance.