An elderly woman who has lost her memory
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Fatwa number ( 21727 )
Q: I submit this petition to you, informing you that my mother is very old and has reached what can be called the extreme of old age, to the point that she knows nothing of the matters of religion or the world, except that she recognizes me when I speak to her in my voice. She no longer distinguishes between night and day or anything else. I am confused regarding fasting: does she owe an expiation because she is unable to perform any of the pillars of Islam ? This is not due to negligence, laziness, or disbelief on her part, but because of her advanced age. Therefore, I ask for your ruling: are we required to feed on her behalf, or are we not? May Allah guide you and keep your steps steady.
A: If the situation is as described, then your mother owes nothing, because she has become non-accountable due to the loss of her memory caused by old age and senility. And success is from Allah, and may Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.
Q: I submit this petition to you, informing you that my mother is very old and has reached what can be called the extreme of old age, to the point that she knows nothing of the matters of religion or the world, except that she recognizes me when I speak to her in my voice. She no longer distinguishes between night and day or anything else. I am confused regarding fasting: does she owe an expiation because she is unable to perform any of the pillars of Islam ? This is not due to negligence, laziness, or disbelief on her part, but because of her advanced age. Therefore, I ask for your ruling: are we required to feed on her behalf, or are we not? May Allah guide you and keep your steps steady.
A: If the situation is as described, then your mother owes nothing, because she has become non-accountable due to the loss of her memory caused by old age and senility. And success is from Allah, and may Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.
Source
www.alifta.gov.sa
The Arabic text is copied verbatim from the original source, without any edits.