The public have been invited to offer their thoughts and concerns about the National Seniors Strategy.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said that the consultation phase would end next week.

She said: “Public consultation is essential and with the deadline approaching on October 18 I urge each of you to take the time to review this draft and share your feedback.

“I implore each of you to get involved and join us as we work to build a better and fairer Bermuda, where everyone, regardless of their age, can celebrate life and age well.”

The National Seniors Strategy will tackle problems centred around the elderly, including affordable healthcare and an effective pension, as well as accessible public transport.

She said that the strategy would involve teamwork between several government ministries, businesses and charities to give their expertise on helping Bermuda’s elders.

Ms Furbert explained that the strategy reflected “what our seniors have shared as vital to their fulfilment”.

The first stage of the National Seniors Strategy will run from the rest of the year until 2027 and target factors directly under the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors’ remit.

It will be updated regularly to keep on track of changing needs before switching to an “action plan” from 2028 to 2030.

This plan, Ms Furbert said, “sets forward a clear path calling for co-ordinated efforts across ministries, departments and agencies”.

She added that the strategy would be centred around the topics of healthy ageing, empowering seniors, age-friendly environments and community involvement.

Ms Furbert warned that this all came on “the cusp of significant demographic change”.

She explained: “Bermuda’s population over 65 will grow significantly, with an anticipated increase to 15,825 seniors by 2026.

“This growth, while we welcome it, also brings challenges and opportunities for our healthcare, housing and social support systems.”

Ms Furbert added: “To meet these needs, the Government’s midyear budget has allocated funds towards improving healthcare access, affordable housing initiatives and expanded public transport options – all critical to supporting the needs of our seniors.”

However, Ms Furbert said that she could not speak on the amount of funds set aside for the strategy.

A draft of the National Seniors Strategy can be found on the Government’s website.

• To offer feedback, visitforum.gov.bm/en/