If we do, we will need to bring stronger cost discipline in the management of these projects. If we do not commit to new buildings, there are possibilities for home care
One way or the other, the care of our senior citizens is bound to claim a larger portion of the public purse...if one jurisdiction has the reasons and wherewithal to do it, it is Bermuda.
programmes that can keep the elderly at home.
One way or the other, the care of our senior citizens is bound to claim a larger portion of the public purse. Meeting that demand will only be possible through
Above: St George Statue in St George’s Town, Bermuda.
facilities for the elderly – has not been formally addressed but appears inevitable based on current demand. There are two government facilities in operation today, Lefroy House and the newly- built Sylvia Richardson Nursing
Home, along with the Continuing Care Ward at the King Edward Hospital. There are, in addition, many private residential homes and partially government supported senior residential facilities. Private care is very expensive and many senior citizens are cared for at home with family caregivers or with professional caregivers. This care either in a
residential home or in their own home is beyond their financial reach and government gives subsidies to those in
government supported senior facilities. There is a long waiting list for residential and nursing home facilities. We will probably need to build another home in order to meet long-term and even current demand,
compassionate eyes and careful management of our limited resources. It will require the best kind of effort, but if any one jurisdiction has the reasons and wherewithal to do it, it is Bermuda. I fervently hope our senior citizens will be able to get the healthcare so many of them need without the worry and having to sacrifice basic necessities. They built this country and created an environment that has attracted millions of tourists through the years and built a financial business pillar in our economy that is second to none. We must honour and care for them now that they are in their declining years for they made Bermuda what it is today.
The Parliamentarian | 2009: Issue One - Bermuda | 39