Comprehensive care for seniors: A plan to address double aging
ORANJESTAD – October is Older Persons Month, a time dedicated to honoring our elderly and focusing on the challenges and needs they face, particularly with the continuous growth of the population aged 60 and over and the phenomenon of "double aging," where there is a rise in the number of people over 80 years old.
A common aging trend occurs when a community sees more people over 65 than babies born annually. Double aging happens when, within the 65+ group, the number of people over age 80 also increases.
Aruba faces challenges related to the need for care, which is becoming increasingly demanding and expensive. The Ministry of Elderly Affairs has developed a comprehensive plan to tackle care issues seniors face.
Experts from Aruba and international consultants have collaborated to develop an integrated plan to address our care challenges. The 'Delta Plan' is based on the concept that the longer a person can live in their environment, such as their home or near their family, the better it is for their health. One of the goals of the Delta Plan is the development of a "care package," where the type of care is analyzed and divided according to intensity and cost to assess how to serve the aging population effectively.
The second focus is on improving care within the home of the senior. To make this possible, we must educate and prepare families to support seniors. Strengthening social networks can also help physical and mental health. The project "PASADIA" has also been launched, providing seniors with a space to participate in recreational and social activities, such as music therapy, board games, and conversations with other members. Three PASADIA locations are currently open with organizations like Wit Gele Kruis, FCCA, SABA, Buurtzorg, Cas Marie, YMCA, and Red Cross collaboration.
With this comprehensive plan and the various projects and collaborations, Aruba is taking a crucial step to address the growing needs of our elderly and help them maintain their dignity and well-being.