MAKKAH — Sarhuda Stiti, a 130-year-old pilgrim from Algeria, has captured the hearts of many as she undertakes her journey to Makkah for Hajj. The Saudi national carrier celebrated her arrival with flowers and a special reception at Jeddah Airport, reflecting the nation's dedication to caring for elderly pilgrims. Stiti stands out as the oldest among many senior pilgrims who travel to perform the fifth pillar of Islam. The Saudi government places a high priority on ensuring the well-being of these elderly guests. The Saudi Ministry of Health has made extensive preparations to accommodate elderly pilgrims, including mobile field hospitals and clinics. Dedicated emergency teams are on standby to address any health issues that may arise. Medical staff are specially trained to manage chronic conditions common among seniors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. The Ministry of Hajj equips each pilgrim with a wristband containing vital information, including their name, nationality, address, health condition, and blood type. This helps ensure that elderly pilgrims receive appropriate care throughout their stay. Health data and medical history are also added to the wristbands, which are crucial for providing timely medical assistance. Additionally, the ministry emphasizes the importance of vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases like meningitis. These comprehensive measures ensure that healthcare services and emergency assistance are readily available. The wristbands also help reunite lost pilgrims with their groups quickly. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also launched initiatives to support elderly pilgrims, such as free transportation to and from accommodations and the provision of mobile and wheelchair services to facilitate movement in crowded areas. Trained volunteers are available to assist and accompany elderly pilgrims throughout their Hajj rituals, ensuring they have the support they need. The General Authority for Endowments (GAE) plays a vital role in enhancing services for pilgrims. They have provided additional transportation options for the elderly, supported accommodation, catering, and healthcare services. Thousands of free or paid wheelchairs, along with specialized staff, are distributed at various points within the Holy Mosques. This demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to offering the highest level of care and comfort to all pilgrims, allowing them to perform their rituals with ease.
