The Bermuda Housing Corporation has moved to meet the housing needs of the Island's growing elderly population with the creation of Project PHASE, BHC general manager Edwin Cowen announced.

"The purpose of Project PHASE is to formulate an action plan for the development of housing for seniors in Bermuda, based on current and future needs,'' explained Mr. Cowen.

BHC chairman Geoffrey Gardner said the initiative would include: identifying existing facilities and services for the elderly; discussing the cost of such services; exploring various housing options for seniors; designing an overall housing plan, based on research findings, that will meet the needs of seniors well into the 21st century; and considering housing for day care and the special needs of Alzheimer's disease patients.

The initiative has received support from the Ministeries of Works, Engineering and Housing, Health & Social Services and Finance.

Housing Minister C.V. (Jim) Woolridge said: "Bermuda, like the rest of the world, is experiencing a tremendous increase in the number of people who are acquiring extended life through old age. Most of these people have made a significant contribution toward the quality of life that we now enjoy, and it is fitting that special attention is given to them during the autumn of their years.'' The project will be headed by director George McPhee, the former physician in charge of the extended care unit at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and Government's consultant geriatrician until his 70th birthday on June 19 when he was forced to quit.

Dr. McPhee is set to begin his legal battle against the Bermuda Hospital Board's decision, which he considers to be age discrimination, soon. The position of co-director will be filled by the Health Ministry's financial assistance director Allen Robinson.

GOVERNMENT GVT