Last Friday, during a meeting in the Parliament of Aruba, four motions submitted by different parliamentary factions were approved regarding the management of elderly care. According to Mervin Wyatt Ras, Minister of Public Health, Social Welfare and Addiction Care, the government presented an integrated vision focused on improving care for the elderly.
Elderly care as a priority
According to the minister, elderly care has been a priority for the Aruba Government AVP-FUTURO coalition since the start of its term. Among the initial measures were an increase in pensions to support the purchasing power of this group and the reintroduction of the “positive reimbursement list” for medications. The government is currently continuing efforts to optimize healthcare management.
Current policy is guided by the principle that most elderly individuals should be able to remain in their own homes, receiving care within their familiar environment. At the same time, the government is strengthening the capacity of care homes and services in Savaneta.
Quality standards and supervision
The Directorate of Elderly Affairs Aruba is developing a framework of quality standards for care homes. According to the minister, increased supervision and oversight are essential to properly address situations that may arise and to guarantee an adequate level of care.
Work is currently underway on a baseline assessment to evaluate the present situation, and a reporting center is active for cases of abuse or mistreatment. Concerns are not limited to physical or mental abuse but also include financial abuse, where in some cases family members may misuse the elderly person’s funds.
Investments in facilities
The government has allocated funds to expand care capacity in Savaneta, adding 20 additional beds and 20 extra staff members. Approximately half a million florins have also been invested in strengthening Centro Kibrahacha, including improvements in transportation and expansion of facilities, such as the creation of a helpline.
In addition, the government contributed to the opening of Pasadia Piedra Plat, which officially opened on February 12. This facility provides daytime care for elderly individuals, offering support to informal caregivers who combine work with caregiving responsibilities.
The day-care model allows elderly persons to spend a full day in a safe and social environment before returning home in the afternoon. According to the minister, this is an important tool to prevent isolation, depression, and mental health problems, while promoting well-being and quality of life.
Law for long-term care
Minister Wyatt Ras confirmed that the government is working on a long-term care law (“langdurige zorg”) that will create a structural basis for sustainable financing of the elderly care sector. Once the legislative proposal is finalized, it will be presented to Parliament for debate and approval.
The minister concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude to all organizations and professionals who contribute daily to ensuring a dignified and quality life for the elderly.