Gov’t advances plan for new senior citizens home – Dr. Persaud

The Government has advanced plans to construct a brand new senior citizens home, as part of a wider national push to modernise elder care services and strengthen what President Dr Irfaan Ali has described as the country’s emerging “care economy.”

The update was provided by the Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud during the Committee of Supply’s examination of the ministry’s 2026 budget estimates, where opposition MPs raised concerns about the growing costs of maintaining aging care facilities.

During the discussion, opposition MP Vishnu Panday suggested that after years of heavy spending on repairs at the Palms Geriatric Home—now 150 years old—it may be more practical for government to construct a new building equipped with modern amenities, particularly given the needs of residents.

In response, the minister confirmed that government is already moving ahead with the plan.

She revealed that the ministry has identified land for the new facility and has already completed design work, while preparations are ongoing for the bill of quantities (BoQ) to guide construction.

The minister said the new home is expected to be completed next year, once the remaining preparatory work is finalised.

The announcement comes as government continues to examine more innovative ways to deliver care to the elderly across Guyana, including through community-based and home-based support systems.

The minister noted that the move is aligned with government’s broader approach to expanding social services, and forms part of a progressive strategy to ensure senior citizens receive care in facilities that meet modern standards.

Meanwhile, discussions in the Committee of Supply also touched on the ministry’s broader response to vulnerable populations, including those displaced by fires or other emergencies, and persons living on the streets.

However, the minister indicated that additional details would depend on specific line items within the estimates.