Strategy seeks to tackle Bermuda’s aging demographic
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“In less than 2 years, 25% of our population will be 65 years or older”. A projection from the Government’s Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors that underpins its newly released 2024 National Seniors Strategy. According to the document, in 2026 1 in 4 persons in Bermuda will be over the age of 65.
The Government has identified four pillars that aim to promote and facilitate aging well for all; 1) Healthy Ageing, 2) Empowered Citizens, 3) Age-Friendly Environments, and 4) Community. Additionally, areas of concern that are being addressed include; financial assistance, public pensions, housing, transportation, healthcare, and long-term care.
The Strategy outlines the following principles as being critical to the enforcement of its goals: 1) A rights based approach, 2) Person-centered care and support, 3) Personal responsibility, 4) Intergenerational solidarity and support, 5) Evidence-based decision making, and 6) Collaboration.
Cross-collaboration will see The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors working “with other Ministries and organisations to confirm initial actions across stakeholders, support coordination and obtain updates on actions and submit reports to Cabinet, stakeholders and the wider public.” A proposed timeline sees the 2024 National Seniors Strategy undergoing a 3-year review in 2027.
To read the National Seniors Strategy 2024 in full, visit https://www.gov.bm/ministry/youth-social-development-and-seniors
