Bermuda, a picturesque island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, faces a significant demographic shift. As the island’s population ages, it brings both challenges and opportunities for healthcare and social services. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the health problems older people in Bermuda are experiencing and talk about ways we can help them have a healthier and happier life as they age.

Bermuda’s Demographic Trends

In 2023, Bermuda’s population increased to 64,069, marking a growth of 4.4% from 61,371 in 2000. Regarding age groups, the percentage of people aged 65 and older in 2023 made up 21.2% of Bermuda’s population. 

One of Bermuda’s significant demographic shifts is the growth of its elderly population. Similar to many countries, this trend is driven by factors such as a declining birth rate and increasing life expectancy. Bermuda’s average life span of 81.8 years exceeds the typical life expectancy across the Americas.

As Bermuda’s population ages, forecasts indicate that by 2026, the island’s old-age dependency ratio will surpass the expected average for The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. In 2017, this ratio stood at 28.0, and by 2026, it is anticipated to rise to 43.6. 

The rising trend in the aging population presents implications for the island’s future workforce and economic sustainability. With fewer young people joining the labor market, pension systems may be strained, and innovative strategies to encourage fertility rates and support working-age populations may be needed.

Top Health Challenges of Bermuda Senior Citizens

Bermuda’s aging population faces health challenges that require targeted interventions and comprehensive healthcare strategies. Among the most prevalent issues are chronic diseases, which disproportionately affect older adults. 

Lifestyle-related risk factors such as sedentary behavior, poor nutrition, and tobacco use contribute to the burden of non-communicable diseases among Bermuda’s aging population. 

These chronic conditions not only impact physical health but also contribute to a higher burden of disability and reduced quality of life. Below are the top conditions that are highly prevalent among the elderly population in Bermuda.

• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Arthritis
• Kidney problems
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s Disease

Recent statistics indicate that Bermuda ranks third among OECD countries for its diabetes prevalence, with more than 13% of its population officially diagnosed with the condition. In addition, at least one chronic illness affects half of the island’s residents, and approximately one-third of Bermuda’s population is affected by elevated blood pressure and/or cholesterol levels.

Mental health is another critical aspect of elderly care that warrants attention. Anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline are common mental health concerns among older adults, yet they are often underdiagnosed and undertreated. 

Social isolation, loss of independence, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues can exacerbate the psychological distress experienced by older adults, highlighting the need for integrated mental health services within the healthcare system.

The Best Opportunities for Health Improvement

Despite the existing challenges, there are numerous opportunities for enhancing the healthcare experience of Bermuda’s aging population. Strategies focusing on preventive care, health promotion, and leveraging technological innovations can empower older adults to lead healthier and more active lifestyles. Collaborative efforts between stakeholders in the healthcare sector also drive meaningful improvements in eldercare services.

1. Preventive Care

Preventive care aims to detect and address health problems early on. By catching issues early, individuals can avoid long-term complications and have better health outcomes. 

For seniors, this means focusing on maintaining mobility, mental sharpness, and overall vitality, contributing to a more enjoyable and fulfilling later life. Here are some of the essential aspects of preventive care:

• Regular Health Screenings: Health professionals recommend that seniors undergo regular health screenings. These include screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol levels, and cancers such as breast, colorectal, and prostate. Regular hearing tests and eye exams are also essential.
• Vaccinations: Older adults must stay up to date with vaccinations. In addition to the yearly flu vaccine, seniors should discuss vaccines for pneumonia, shingles, and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) with their healthcare provider. 
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet rich in lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains supports overall health. Regular physical activity, tailored to the person’s abilities and health status, helps maintain mobility and cardiovascular health. Avoiding tobacco and moderating alcohol consumption are also crucial.
• Mental Health and Cognitive Activity: Seniors can maintain cognitive function by engaging in activities stimulating the mind, such as reading, solving puzzles, or learning new skills. Social engagement and community participation also play a critical role in mental health, helping to ward off depression and anxiety.
• Fall Prevention: Falls are a big risk for seniors, leading to injuries that significantly affect their quality of life. Simple measures such as removing trip hazards, installing grab bars, and ensuring good lighting make a big difference. Exercise programs focusing on balance and strength are also beneficial.
• Medication Management: Proper medication management is crucial in preventing adverse reactions and interactions. Seniors should regularly review their medications with a healthcare provider to ensure each is still necessary and adequately dosed.

2. Health Promotion

Health promotion activities aim to improve the well-being of Bermuda’s aging population by encouraging lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of disease. Understanding the nuances of aging health is crucial for developing healthcare policies and programs that support the well-being of the elderly population.

Programs focused on nutrition, physical activity, and mental health significantly enhance the quality of life for senior citizens. Community-based initiatives such as healthy eating workshops, exercise classes tailored to older adults, and social clubs combat social isolation and promote mental health. Public awareness campaigns on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the risks associated with tobacco use and sedentary behavior are also crucial. 

By fostering a supportive environment for healthy aging, Bermuda can empower its senior citizens to maintain their independence and vitality for longer.

3. Technological Innovations

In a forum, Bermuda’s health minister, Kim Wilson, detailed the core objectives of the Bermuda Health Strategy for 2022–2027, entitled “Harnessing Healthcare Technology.” The strategy aims to advance healthcare by integrating technology into Bermuda’s medical care. Technological innovations facilitate better information exchange among medical professionals and support the remote tracking of patients’ health statuses.

Through mobile health apps, patient portals, and other technological tools, Bermuda residents will have more straightforward access to their medical information and improved communication channels with healthcare providers. 

Moreover, Wilson highlighted the role of technology in improving public health administration through efficient disease tracking, outbreak management, and vaccination initiative organization, all while reducing healthcare expenses.

Technology adoption is pivotal in elevating healthcare quality in Bermuda, leading to increased patient involvement and more consistent adherence to treatment regimens.

Resources for Bermuda Senior Citizens

Below are some resources helpful for the elderly population of Bermuda:

• Age Concern Resource Directory: This is an advocacy group in Bermuda focusing on connecting elderly individuals with essential resources. 
• Government of Bermuda General Information Services for Seniors: This page contains a comprehensive list of the organizations and services within Bermuda dedicated to safeguarding the rights of older people and preserving their standard of living. 
• Government of Bermuda Health Promotion: Know the latest government-initiated health promotion activities and resources.
• Premier Health and Wellness Center’s Blog: Read health and wellness articles on topics such as heart health, diabetes, nutrition, gut health, and more.

Age Gracefully & Live Fully with PHWC!

The relationship between aging and health requires strategies that address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of growing older. Embrace the golden years with a positive outlook and maintain good health with support from our team of healthcare professionals.

At Premier Health and Wellness Center (PHWC), we offer comprehensive healthcare services and personalized wellness programs, such as preventive screenings, diagnostics, nutritional therapy, weight loss, and diabetes reversal programs. By working with our team of expert healthcare providers, seniors can access the tools and resources they need to enjoy the best quality of life possible.

Send us a message online or call 441-292-5111 to get started!