My mother is 70 years old. She is diabetic and many other health issues. She’s fasting this Ramadan with her own will. She hears from many people saying to her that she’s not supposed to fast since Allah has given this privilege to the people over 70 (only to give fidya after 70) and that she’s not following Allah’s hukum. My mom is now seeking an authentic answer about this whether she should fast or not. Jazak’Allahu khairan!
Bismillahi Ta’ala
Walaikum Assalam Warahmatullah,
The command to fast is not age-restricted. It applies to any mature (bāligh) adult who has the physical ability, regardless of how old they are. Fidya only serves as a substitute for fasting when a person has reached a level of weakness that would prevent them from ever fasting again.
By fasting, your mother is in fact following Allah’s ḥukm. We make du’ā that Allāh continues to bless your mother with ‘āfiyah and allows her to be steadfast on her ‘ibādāt and maintain her independence till her last days.
Wallahu A’lam
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Mufti Wahhaj
Checked and Approved by
Mufti Yusuf