Dubai: Meet 91-year-old war survivor who found a 'second home' at Elder Square
Sudanese-born Aussie shell-shocked as 2023 finds her fleeing war torn Sudan-Noora Malouf, 91. What she thought was the end of her life, she reached out to the French consulate for assistance after hearing gunfire just behind her home. But when out of the blue, her husband suggested they move to Dubai — leaving her with her five dogs — Norma arrived there, uncertain all over again as she started out life once more discovering Elder Square, an elder day care centre in Dubai, where everything changed and she found life once again.
French expat at the iftar gathering at the centre/chruch for Emirati old people, where she was entertaining a mix of fellow elder members, their families and visitors with stories of her colourful life.. She said, I love it here everyday meeting people, talking to them and getting to know them.
What occurred in Sudan was painful, but I dont believe it is who I am, Norma reflected on her journey. I guess: life goes on, and much as I know it, you can only live life to the fullest. Just at Elder Square, it gave me purpose in life. It has become a home where I tell my stories and where memories are written with beautiful souls.'
Elder Square, opened in May 2024 in Jumeirah, is the brainchild of Tamara Binladin, and is designed to be less of a medical facility and more of a hub of life. It offers anything from arts and crafts to dancing and karaoke, individualized to the interests and abilities of the senior.
A sense of belonging
Others who attended the iftar include fellow members 89-year-old Syed Shahid Husain, who refers to himself as “the youngest 89,” and 76-year-old Ranendra Narayan Kachari. They joined Elder Square seven months ago, and have developed a strong friendship. Ranendra said, "I was feeling very lonely before I came here." Instead, I now get to enjoy one every week. It excites me,” he added.
Ranendra's daughter told that her father has changed since he joined the centre. There was something for him to look forward to for a change, she said. I had a lot of worries when I first brought him to this new place and setting, but now I realize how happy he is. So it has been a lovely transition. Keen to this, Syed stated: “I love the fact that I can come here to play some games and thrash Ranendra all the time! Having that youthfulness in my heart always gives me a big smile on my face.
At the centre, Tamara Binladin stressed the need for a well-balanced approach, uniting wellness with fun. We want every senior participant to be a person and an identity instead of a mere statistic waiting to be fed.” We've had great turnouts at our events, she said. We tailor the activities depending on what the members are interested in, such as mobility, calligraphy, or socialising, she added.
Elder Square is also a community centre suitable for all, as a café on a basement level welcomes guests of all ages. Tamara said, "We want to bring together all age groups. There are sound healings and educational talks to provide opportunities to engage and to be in support of one another.
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