The Tribune

Social Services Minister Barbara Cartwright served as keynote speaker at the 11th Annual Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre Caregiver Symposium, an Older Persons Month event focused on empowering those who care for older Bahamians.

The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA), through Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, held the symposium on Friday, in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Services’ Older Persons/Disability Affairs Unit, under the theme “Beyond Care: Empowering Caregivers to Thrive, Lead and Transform Lives.”

Minister Cartwright’s participation came as the Older Persons Bill is being debated in Parliament, placing greater national attention on the rights, protection and wellbeing of older persons. The symposium’s emphasis on dignity, independence and quality care complemented that wider focus.

The event brought together caregivers, healthcare professionals, community leaders and family members to strengthen knowledge, share experiences and encourage collaboration in caring for an aging population.

Its programme was designed to explore practical approaches to care-giving, including the role of digital tools such as monitoring devices, tele-medicine and tracking systems. Alongside improving care, the symposium also focused on caregivers’ own wellness and resilience, recognising their need for encouragement, resources and support.

Chaired by Dr Krystle A Rolle, the symposium continued a tradition of more than a decade of education and partnership. It reinforced the importance of equipping caregivers to deliver compassionate, person-centred care that respects older persons’ dignity and independence.