Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone has urged the community to respect and care for its fore fathers who have laid the foundation that has brought the Virgin Islands to where it is today.

Honourable Malone in a celebratory message on May 2 to declare the month of activities officially launched, said senior gems are important members of our society.

“They have laid the foundation and are the shoulders on which we stand as men and women.  They possess skills, knowledge and experience and continue to contribute effectively to society and they deserve our time, attention affection and respect,” Honourable Malone stated.

Minister Malone also spoke about the importance of inclusion and ensuring that the Territory’s gems age positively.

 “We want to make sure that their physical and psychological health needs are being addressed, Honourable Malone said, adding, “We want to make sure that they are maintaining a positive attitude, a safe source of income and that they can continue to contribute to society in meaningful ways.”

         The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Social Development Department will continue to work to enhance the lives of the senior citizens in the Virgin Islands by:

• Providing supports and services that allow for greater independence. 
• Developing infrastructure that is responsive to individual needs and preferences.
• Designing programs, services, and policies with people of all ages in mind.

• Encouraging mutual respect for older adults among families and within the community; and
• Encouraging and promoting partnerships and collaborative approaches to addressing issues that are of concern to older adults at the community and territorial levels.

Senior Citizens are encouraged to support activities during the month of May.

 The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to improving the health of the people of the Territory.