Draft senior strategy released for public consultation
The Government has released a draft report of its strategy to support the island’s seniors for public consultation in an effort to garner feedback.
A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors said the draft report, titled A National Seniors Strategy, 2024-2030 — Celebrating Life and Ageing Well, was a result of the collaborative work carried out by Ageing and Disability Services and the Bermuda Health Council.
“In less than two years, it is estimated that 25 per cent of Bermuda’s population will be 65 years or older,” the spokeswoman said.
“The draft strategy is designed to address the many challenges faced by Bermuda’s ageing population such as dementia, long-term care, affordable housing, safety, transportation and healthcare.”
The strategy, available online through the Government’s Citizens Forum, is based on four pillars: healthy ageing, empowering citizens, age-friendly environments and community.
The public consultation period is scheduled to run until October 18, with the spokeswoman stating that any feedback received will be carefully considered before the plan is finalised.
Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said the Government was proud to introduce the first national seniors strategy, which she said “reflects our deep commitment to the wellbeing, dignity and independence of our seniors”.
Ms Furbert added: “As Bermuda's ageing population grows, we must embrace a forward-thinking, inclusive approach to address the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“This strategy, built on collaboration and community engagement, is a road map to ensure our seniors age with dignity, independence and a high quality of life.
“We encourage the public to participate in this important consultation process, ensuring the strategy is relevant and impactful for our seniors, now and for future generations.”
The ministry urged the public to join in the consultation process to ensure the strategy will help seniors to age well with dignity, independence and a good quality of life.
• The draft report can be found online at forum.gov.bm/en. Physical copies can be collected from the Office of Ageing and Disability Services in the Continental Building on Church Street, Hamilton
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