The Maldives is ageing. As more people are living longer, the nation faces a new set of challenges: how do we ensure that older individuals can continue to live fulfilling lives, and how do we build a community where everyone - regardless of age - feels supported and valued? In the face of these challenges, the island community of N. Kudafari offers an inspiring glimpse into what ageing with dignity could look like.

N. Kudafari, home to 628 residents, including 551 Maldivians and 77 foreign residents, has 41 people aged 65 and above, who form an essential part of the community. On this island, the elderly community are not just cared for - they are celebrated. When Island Council President Ali Shameem Mohamed noticed that many older residents were feeling isolated, especially those returning to the island after years of living away, he knew something needed to be done. In response, the Elderly Club was established, providing a dedicated space where the elderly could reconnect, share their wisdom and stay active.

“The main purpose of the club is to keep the elderly people active and in good health,” President Shameem shared. “We want them to age healthier, pass down their knowledge, skills, craftsmanship and more to the new generation.” By integrating the older population into the heart of community life, N. Kudafari has taken significant strides towards building an inclusive, age-friendly environment.

This year, N. Kudafari marked the International Day of Older Persons with a vibrant celebration organized by the Island Council and the Elderly Club in partnership with UNFPA Maldives. The celebrations were an opportunity to honour the elders and showcase the island’s collective commitment to healthy ageing. UNFPA Maldives brought the ‘Hattah’ (For the Body in English) program into the heart of the festivities, leading activities designed to promote physical and mental well-being.

Guided art sessions, conducted in collaboration with Creative Jous, focused on mental well-being and fostering creativity among  the elders. The sense of joy was palpable as elders painted and shared their stories. “I learnt a lot about exercising, art, cooking and how to prepare food in healthier ways. I especially loved the art session,” shared Arifa, a 67-year old participant.

Cooking sessions also took place, where elders learned to prepare nutritious meals using locally available ingredients. These activities were designed not only to promote health, but also to create moments of connection. “I really enjoyed learning how to cook meals that are both delicious and good for my health. It’s something I will definitely use and continue at home,” said Ahmed Rasheed, a 59-year old participant. The sessions were well received, with participants highlighting how they gained practical knowledge about balanced nutrition that they could apply in their daily lives.

One of the unique aspects of N. Kudafari’s approach is the emphasis on community building, which President Shameem believes is at the core of what they do. “Our main focus is on the well-being of our people,” he explained. “The council’s role is to address the challenges of the community and make sure that every member feels connected and supported.”

The Elderly Club is just one example of how the council works to build a supportive environment for their island community. The council is planning to involve the younger generation through their upcoming Children’s Club, aiming to foster unity and intergenerational support. Additionally, they strive to ensure that even the island’s growing foreign population feels part of the community. “We want everyone, including foreign workers and residents to feel that they belong here,” President Shameem added. “Their involvement in our events and activities only strengthens the bond we share as a community.”

The council is also actively working to address the challenges that come with building an inclusive community. “One of the biggest challenges we face is the changing demographics and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, feels welcome,” said President Shameem. “But our community has a strong spirit. They are adaptable, positive and always willing to embrace change. That mindset is what allows us to grow stronger, together.”

N. Kudafari’s initiative emphasizes that healthy ageing is not just about healthcare - it’s about connection, purpose and community spirit. By fostering a supportive environment, they are demonstrating that ageing with dignity is possible when communities come together with resilience and a shared purpose.

Young volunteers, such as 17-year old Shaffa Ahmed Nadheem, also play a crucial role in these initiatives. “I volunteer because I love seeing our elders happy,” she said. “They have so much wisdom and I want to support them in every way I can.” The involvement of young people further strengthens the connection between generations, enriching the community as a whole.

Looking ahead, the Island Council has ambitious plans to expand its community-building initiatives. The future vision includes launching the “Mas Badhige” community kitchen, in partnership with the Women’s Development Committee to provide opportunities for local women to supply home-cooked meals to nearby resorts. Additionally, plans to establish a water bottling plant and eliminate single-use plastics are underway, aiming to create a more sustainable and self-sufficient island. These future plans illustrate the island’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents, while ensuring that ageing with dignity remains a central goal.

Under President Shameem’s leadership, the development vision embraces perspectives from all age groups, with local pilot projects demonstrating real community-driven progress. N. Kudafari is positioning itself not just for survival, but for thriving and serving as a model for other islands. With around 10 islands in the Maldives having a median age close to 40, N. Kudafari’s approach is especially relevant as these communities prepare for the future.

The journey in N. Kudafari has only just begun, but it already offers a meaningful example of what is possible when communities come together. Their initiatives have shown that with care, respect and a little creativity, we can create environments where older persons thrive. Ageing with dignity is not just a dream - it is an achievable goal when we work together.