A National Policy on Ageing is expected to be introduced by the end of the current financial year.

This was asserted by Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment, Urban and Rural Development, Christopher Sinckler, today, as he addressed the NAB’s seminar on "Alternative Interventions for Institutionalised Older Adults", at the Pan American Health Organisation’s Headquarters.

The Minister noted that based on statistics, it is projected that there will be 58,972 persons over 65 years living in Barbados by the year 2025.

"This is a situation which has now reached the point where it cannot be ignored. It is a situation which has impacted, or will continue to impact each and every one of us, whether directly or indirectly," Mr. Sinckler stressed.

He said that the challenges which affected the ageing population were addressed in the draft White Paper on a National Policy on Ageing.

"This document identifies all the issues which impact on the wellbeing of the elderly, in areas such as the physical and social environment, health, legislation and economic security. In addition, it makes strong, purposeful recommendations for the enhancement of the quality of life of the elderly," the Social Care Minister stated. sharifa.medford@barbados.gov.bb

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