President Ivo Valdes Calls for Urgent Government Action
The President of the Organization of Public Pensioners of Aruba (OPPA), Mr. Ivo Valdes, has voiced serious concerns about the current state of elderly care on the island.
Valdes stated that the situation is not progressing well, particularly for seniors requiring permanent care. He pointed out that there is still a long waiting list at the SABA care center, and private care homes are also facing significant obstacles.
“There is a shortage of care homes in Aruba. Instead of the government creating structured policies to support private care facilities and meet regulatory requirements, the situation is becoming more difficult, with many private homes unable to continue providing care. That was never the intention. I hope the government introduces proper measures, especially for the elderly, because change is urgently needed,” Valdes emphasized.
He appealed to the Government of Aruba to step in, noting that one day even policymakers themselves will become elderly. He also highlighted that pension incomes are not sufficient, especially for seniors struggling with health issues.
Valdes urged the government to conduct a fair evaluation of who should receive pension increases or adjustment allowances, stressing that not all retirees are in the same situation. “Even though some pensioners may have two pensions, that does not mean they should be excluded from allowances. Everyone deserves fair treatment,” he concluded.
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