CLAREMONT, St. Ann — Jamaica has taken a significant step toward improving healthcare for its ageing population with the official launch of Golden CARE, the country’s first geriatric facility dedicated to the specialised care of older adults.
The facility, located at the Claremont Centre of Excellence (Health Centre) in St. Ann, was officially unveiled by Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, under the Ministry’s Community Arranged Response Efforts (CARE) initiative. The Government also announced plans to replicate the model in communities across the island.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Tufton said the initiative represents a new standard in healthcare for Jamaicans aged 60 and over, with a focus on addressing their unique physical, mental, psychological and social needs.
He noted that approximately 500 senior citizens in Claremont and neighbouring communities are expected to benefit from the facility, which will provide specialised assessments and care for chronic illnesses, memory challenges, mental health concerns, falls and the effects of loneliness.
Dr. Tufton also highlighted the programme’s emphasis on strengthening community ties, noting that increased social engagement can improve both longevity and quality of life among older adults.
The initiative is being led by Professor Denise Eldemire Shearer and her team at the Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre. Professor Eldemire Shearer explained that the geriatric clinic is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare by focusing on issues that are often overlooked in traditional clinics.
She said the facility will use a World Health Organization (WHO)-approved 10-minute screening tool, which was piloted in Jamaica, to identify health concerns early and provide timely interventions, including physiotherapy and other specialised services.
Several senior citizens were enrolled in the clinic during the official opening. Community resident Theresa Slack welcomed the initiative, describing it as a much-needed service for an area where many younger residents have migrated, leaving behind a growing elderly population.
She said the dedicated clinic will ensure older persons receive focused, compassionate care without being overlooked in the general healthcare system.
The launch of Golden CARE marks a major milestone in Jamaica’s efforts to improve healthcare services for its ageing population and promote healthier, more independent lives for senior citizens.
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