Column: Minister On Aging And Care Planning
[Column written by Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors Tinee Furbert]
Conversations about growing older often begin after something has happened. A parent has fallen. A spouse needs help at home. Someone stops driving, and relatives must arrange transport around their work hours. Care decisions become urgent before the family has discussed what anyone wants or can manage.
Bermuda’s population projections put the proportion of residents aged 65 and over at approximately one in four in 2026. Preparing for later life concerns households across the island, including people raising children while caring for their parents. The National Seniors Strategy 2024–2030 sets out how Bermuda can prepare for these needs through action by families, communities, employers and Government.
As Minister responsible for Youth, Social Development and Seniors, I encourage families to begin with the wishes of the person whose future they are discussing. Where do they want to live? What matters to them about their daily routine? Whom would they trust to help? Their answers should guide the arrangements.
We also need to prepare for our own later years. That means reviewing what we can afford to save and understanding what we can expect in retirement income. It means considering whether our home will suit us as our mobility changes, and talking with the people we want involved in our care. Those plans should also include maintaining friendships and taking part in community life, especially as work and family routines change. Planning Guide
Within families, responsibilities need to be discussed openly. Someone living nearby may still work long hours. A relative overseas may contribute financially or organise appointments. Agree on who can provide regular help, who can cover an unexpected absence, and when outside assistance will be needed. Revisit those arrangements as circumstances change, including when a caregiver’s own health or employment is affected.
Legal planning belongs in these conversations. Ask a qualified Bermuda attorney about preparing or updating a will, establishing an appropriate power of attorney, and documenting advance care wishes. Discuss future medical care with your healthcare professional. Ask about safeguards against financial misuse and confirm that someone you trust knows where the documents are kept. Age Concern provides local guidance and legal referral information at Link Here.
A plan also needs to account for the home and household budget. Stairs or a difficult bathroom layout may affect someone’s ability to live safely at home. Seeking advice about adaptations gives a household time to understand the work and its cost. Pension and insurance providers can explain existing arrangements. When considering paid care, ask what the charges cover and how costs could change if additional support becomes necessary.
Community organisations and private providers can help families put those plans into practice. Age Concern offers information and referrals, while Dementia Bermuda provides dementia-specific services and caregiver education. Ask about home care, meals, transport, social activities and respite, including eligibility requirements and waiting lists.
Employers have a role too. Flexible start and finish times can help staff accompany relatives to appointments. Clear caregiver leave policies tell staff what they can request. Pre-retirement planning sessions can give staff a chance to ask questions about their benefits and prepare for the transition out of work.
Churches and neighbourhood groups can organise help that people can count on. A visit roster, a lift to church or the grocery store, or a phone call on an agreed day gives each volunteer a specific responsibility. Ask the older person what they would find useful and respect their preferences. Seniors may also want to volunteer, mentor, or help organise activities. Their interests should shape community life.
For people with limited family support, Ageing and Disability Services can assess care needs, help coordinate assistance and connect them with services. Call 292-7802 to ask about an assessment. Here
Where affordability is the concern, the Department of Financial Assistance assesses eligible Bermudians for help with living costs and care, including home care, adult day care and nursing-home fees. Application information is available at gov.bm/articles/how-get-financial-assistance.
This week, begin with one conversation. Ask an older relative what they want for the years ahead, or tell someone you trust what you want for yourself. Write the next step you agree to take and who will follow it up.
- Tinee Furbert, Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors
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