Government Committed to Ensuring Seniors Age with Dignity
Honourable Isalean Phillip, Minister of State responsible for Ageing, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that seniors age with dignity and respect during her remarks to commemorate International Day of Older Persons on October 01, 2024.
Minister’s Remarks
The minister’s remarks were made on Tuesday, during a special church service at the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Sandy Point. The service was the first in a series of local events to mark the global observance.
Minister Phillip highlighted the international theme "Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide," emphasizing its alignment with the administration’s key objectives of fostering stronger and safer care communities.
Government Initiatives
The government has increased services to seniors by increasing the number of home care officers and expanding the Seniors Enrichment Programme to include more engagement, headlined by the popular Seniors’ Day Programme. This initiative is implemented in six communities and engages older persons in fun and entertainment activities such as kite-making, greeting card design, painting, and arts and crafts. Fun activities include kite flying, movie matinee, sports day and a Seniors’ Prom. Private companies and individuals have also established and increased services for seniors in several areas including transportation services, assistive devices, targeted spa treatments, and home care.
Government’s Vision
The government believes that ageing with dignity includes seniors having the option to remain in their home among loving family, for as long as possible, with the appropriate care and services being available to them. As a government, we are committed to encouraging the growth of these businesses. Through the Ministry of Ageing and Disabilities, we take on the responsibility of regulating and monitoring the growing delivery of services in this area to ensure that service providers offer care according to best practices, at a fair and reasonable cost in accessible ways.
Regulations and Care Standards
The government is working to create regulations and care standards for care homes and home care services through policy development and legislation.
Conclusion
The government’s commitment to ensuring that seniors age with dignity and respect is evident in its initiatives and policies. By providing services and support, the government aims to promote the well-being and dignity of seniors, enabling them to live their golden years with comfort, honour, and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the government’s commitment to ensuring seniors age with dignity?
A: The government is committed to ensuring that seniors age with dignity and respect, providing them with the necessary services and support to live their golden years with comfort, honour, and dignity.
Q: What initiatives has the government implemented to support seniors?
A: The government has increased services to seniors by increasing the number of home care officers and expanding the Seniors Enrichment Programme to include more engagement, headlined by the popular Seniors’ Day Programme.
Q: What is the government’s vision for ageing with dignity?
A: The government believes that ageing with dignity includes seniors having the option to remain in their home among loving family, for as long as possible, with the appropriate care and services being available to them.