Cuts and falling benefits could severely impact the Island’s seniors if included in today’s Budget, according to Age Concern.

Chairperson of Age Concern’s advocacy committee Charles Jeffers said: “At a time when many seniors are suffering from the effects of the present state of the economy, there are added stresses because of Government’s announced commitments to make cuts in an effort to right the financial ship of Bermuda.”

Mr Jeffers also expressed concern that given the limited income of the Island’s seniors, financial assistance is often needed for seniors to make ends meet.

He said that according to a recent Age Concern member survey, 60 percent felt the cost of healthcare was too high while benefits were not at an acceptable level.

“Any cuts in benefits would increase the vulnerability of those seniors at the bottom of the ladder,” Mr Jeffers said. “Government has already cut benefits with the closing of the Critical Care Unit of the hospital with no real alternative.”

Asked if there were any other major concerns regarding the Budget, Mr Jeffers indicated that decreasing or eradicating existing car licensing exemptions, or any other exemptions could be the start of a “silver revolt”.

Executive director Claudette Fleming added: “There are a number of identified hot button issues coming from Age Concern members that are at the forefront of their minds regarding the Budget. Affordability of healthcare for seniors, income and long-term care top the list.

“The overall wish for the Budget is that the Budget does not adversely affect the most vulnerable of the older adult population.”