Monitoring condition of elderly woman in Hoandeddhoo: Ministry

Ministry of Social and Family Development has said it is working closely with the elderly woman living wothout a caregiver in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Hoandeddhoo and is finding means to support her.

The 64 year old woman was taken to Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Thinadhoo in the same atoll last month for treatment and later transferred to IGMH in Male'. After nearly a month, she was sent back to her home island.

She reportedly has no children and her 73 year old husband is also unable to care for her due to mental health issues.

Deputy Minister of Social and Family Development Mariyam Lahufa said the ministry had been monitoring the case since it was brought to their attention.

“The ministry is working with the council and relevant authorities to monitor the situation and provide assistance,” she said.

According to the Hoandeddhoo Council, the woman was returned to the island on Saturday after treatment at IGMH without prior notice to any government agency.

She was temporarily placed at the health centre with the help of the ministry, where staff provided meals and care, but was later sent home as there was no medical treatment required.

The council said it had written to both the Health Ministry and the Social and Family Development Ministry on 11 September, requesting that arrangements be made for the woman to be institutionalized and properly cared for.

Ministry of Social and Family Development is responsible for supporting people with special needs, the elderly, and individuals unable to live independently.

Hoandeddhoo Council has urged the government to provide a swift and sustainable solution for the woman’s long-term care.