Video: Minister Tinee Furbert Press Conference

[Updated] Minister of Social Development and Seniors Tinee Furbert is holding a press conference this morning [Feb 1] to discuss the “Ageing Well” initiative. We will have additional coverage later on and in the meantime the live video is below.

Update: The live broadcast has concluded and the replay is below

Update: Minister Furbert’s remarks:

Good Afternoon Everyone,

Today, it is my pleasure to be joined by the new members of the Ageing Well Committee.

The Government initially established this Committee in 2017 under the leadership of Premier the Hon. David Burt JP, MP and my colleague, Mr. Derrick Burgess, JP, MP when the Bermudian Charter of the Rights and Responsibilities of the Elderly and Adults in Need of Long-Term Care and Assistance was developed.

This Charter framed the guidelines for implementing Ageing Well policies which led to the development of a Code of Practice in 2018 and subsequently implemented to provide standards, criteria and guidelines for setting the minimum requirements for the operation of Bermuda’s Residential Care and Nursing Homes

The Ministry of Social Development and Seniors welcomes the members of the Ageing Well Committee so that the necessary work can continue to enhance the quality of life for seniors in Bermuda.

In alignment with global trends, Bermuda is experiencing an ageing population. Our 2016 Census showed that there were 10,704 seniors aged 65 years and older with seniors accounting for 17% of Bermuda’s total population. By the year 2026, it 1s projected that roughly 25% of the population will be older than 65 years.

Based on this rising trend and building on the work previously done, the Ageing Well Committee will be directly engaged in those matters related to improving the well-being of Bermuda’s seniors.

The committee will make recommendations to the Ministry on critical areas impacting seniors, such as:

• Comprehensive planning and accountability

• Strategic workforce development and education

• Employment and financial security for older adults and caregivers

• Healthy ageing

• Ageing at home

• Accessible transportation and;

• Long-term care and intergenerational and inclusive communities.

Overall, the Committee will:

• Advise the Ministry on existing and emerging ageing-related issues and the best practice protocols

• Conduct research and produce deliverables as directed and approved by the Minister

• Develop and support Ageing Well awareness events and public engagement in coordination with Ageing and Disability Services and;

• Upon request, provide a review of amendments to legislation and Government policy as it relates to seniors

I am excited to share that the immediate mandate of the Ageing Well Committee is to: produce ‘A Guide to Benefits for Seniors’; and, steer a Public Awareness Campaign on Ageing Well for All Ages.

At this time, I would like to introduce you to the Ageing Well Committee members.

The Committee comprises 17 members, inclusive of a Chairperson and Ex Officio Members who are here with me today.

To my right is the Chairperson of the Ageing Well Committee, Mrs. Ianthia Simmons-Wade, JP, MP, who has been the Chair of the Ageing Well Committee since 2019.

Her entire career has been dedicated to healthcare, long term care and seniors in the private, government and third sectors. Mrs. Simmons Wade is a strong advocate for Bermuda’s seniors and in her role as Chair will continue to ensure that seniors always remain front and center with all legislations and are able to live in dignity.

Other Committee Members are:

Former members of the Ageing Well Committee, are Ms. Selena Fields, Ms. Lynn Wade, and Ms. Sharon Swan.

Newly Appointed Members include:

Ms. April Augustus who has operated a mental health shelter for an ageing population in New York, U.S.A. Ms. Augustus also has experience operating the Matilda Smith Williams Nursing Home and Westmeath Residential and Nursing Care Home.

Dr. Shangri-La Durham-Thompson who has a keen interest in helping to drive change toward a more nurturing culture that would benefit our seniors.

Mr. Derek Flood has a background in Psychology and Sociology; and International Child Welfare. Mr. Flood also has experience in caring for several family members who are seniors.

Ms. Wendy Greenidge Foggo is a qualified lawyer but formerly worked as a nurse and was employed at the Packwood and Pembroke Nursing Homes.

Ms. Angela Joell, by profession, is an educator and motivator who has specialized in pensions and investments; and is passionate about ensuring seniors are educated regarding their financial well-being.

Mrs. Kristy Joseph has worked in the healthcare profession for 14 years and is a certified transformational life coach. She advocates for seniors and encourages the general public and organizations to give back to our seniors.

Mr. Floyd Ming is a retired senior whose professional career in IT spans over 20 years. Mr. Ming has experience in the healthcare sector as a recreation therapist assistant and support worker.

Ms. Josephine Outerbridge is a retiree who has served the community in various capacities, such as working as a reserve police officer and being a member of the Hamilton Parish Council.

Ms. Krystal Rodrigues is a registered architect who is passionate about our senior population and the issues seniors face, such as ageing in place.

Dr. Sylvia Shorto is the Executive Director of the Lifelong Learning Centre at the Bermuda College and is committed to improving the well-being and quality of life of seniors.

The Committee’s ex officio members represent the Bermuda Health Council – Ms. Ja-Mae Smith and Ms. Akilah Reid and;

Ageing and Disability Services — Mrs. Keeona Belboda.

On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I want to thank the members of The Ageing Well Committee for their willingness to serve. I am confident that your passion, collective wisdom, and experience will be invaluable to helping create a community that ages well together. The Ministry received an overwhelmingly positive response to the expression of interest request for the Ageing Well Committee and I want to extend my sincere gratitude. While I could not select all applicants, there will be more opportunity for the involvement of those who are interested in seniors.

Thank you, and I welcome any questions.

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