Officials at the Ministry of Social Services will deliver a National Older Persons Policy that will have a National Dementia Strategy among its priority within 12 months of the enactment of the Older Persons Rights, Protections, Care and Support Bill, 2026, Minister of Social Services, Senator, the Hon. Barbara Cartwright told Senate colleagues.
“A law is only as strong as its enforcement,” said. “Passing this Bill is a promise. Implementing it is proof.”
The National Dementia Strategy will be developed in consultation with persons living with dementia, their caregivers, and stakeholders. Senator Cartwright expressed her “gratitude” for the Government’s commitment of additional financial and human resources to that task.
The Bill’s focus on support for persons living with dementia and other cognitive impairments comes at a most critical time as statistics from regional and international bodies (including the Pan American Health Organization and World Health Organization) highlight that cognitive decline and neurocognitive disorders (like Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias) represent a substantial and rapidly growing health burden for older persons in The Bahamas.
It is estimated that between 1,920 and 2,000 persons currently live with dementia in-country. Dementia cases are anticipated to grow to 6,000 by the year 2050.
Delivery of the National Older Persons Policy is just one of a six-part series of key initiatives to be undertaken once enactment occurs. Others involve the provision of pro bono legal assistance with Wills and Powers of Attorney for those in need of the services; a government intention to construct accommodations for Seniors who have reached the stage of life where they are unable to live independently, and introduction of assistive technology, including emergency alert and location devices for those living with cognitive impairment.
Senator Cartwright outlined other aspects of the Bill.
“Second, officers in the Residential Care and Licensing Authority have the mandate to visit and inspect residences and care facilities. Where an older person is found to be in imminent danger, they will act – through the courts where necessary – including emergency removal to a place of safety.
“Third, we will respond with urgency. Every complaint received through our upgraded National Hotline and the Department of Social Services will be investigated within 24 hours in an emergency, and within 72 hours in all other cases. Our 24-hour hotline, 711, is available today.
“Fourth, we will support families who are carrying the load: older person’s day care, community nursing and home-based health services, caregiver training, designated liaison officers to help seniors navigate public services, a digital portal for services, and pro bono legal assistance with wills and powers of attorney.
“Fifth, we will ensure that the needs of older persons are built into disaster preparedness, response, relief and recovery, so that no senior is forgotten when the next storm comes.
“Sixth, we will not do this alone. The National Council on Older Persons will continue as our formal advisory body, and we will work hand in hand with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Public Hospitals Authority, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, our churches and civil society.”
Senator Cartwright said: “To give further support, it is the government’s intention to construct accommodations for seniors who have reached the stage of life where they are unable to live independently. One such facility being considered is a modern, state-of-the art senior’s residence with the capacity to accommodate 70 elders.
“It is envisioned that this facility, as any facility built by us, will be a safe space, built to withstand the most severe weather conditions, be disabled-friendly and be outfitted with appropriate recreation spaces,” Senator Cartwright added.
