By The Star Staff
Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced Tuesday the signing of an executive order to establish the “Comprehensive Care Unit for Seniors,” to be attached to the Office of the Governor, with the purpose of coordinating and implementing public policies aimed at the elderly population.
“Our seniors deserve attention and sensitivity from their government, after a lifetime of contributing to our society and families,” the governor said in a written statement. “They have always been a priority for this public servant, as a congresswoman and now as governor.”
The new unit will be responsible for ensuring the effective implementation of government initiatives in commonwealth agencies, promoting a comprehensive approach based on equity, dignity and quality of life. Additionally, it will work to update existing legislation to address the needs of seniors.
The governor was accompanied by Family Secretary Suzanne Roig, Guaynabo Mayor Edward O’Neill Rosa and Ombudsman for the Elderly Yolanda Varela Rosa, as well as legislators and representatives of various organizations serving the senior population.
González Colón also announced the creation of a Task Force for Older Adults comprising government entities and organizations focused on improving the quality of life for that population, including gerontology schools, associations related to diseases such as Parkinson’s, recreational centers, and long-term care organizations.
At the same conference, the governor introduced House Bill A-012 to establish the “Liaison Office for the Support and Registry of Persons with Rare Diseases Act,” to be attached to the Department of Health, with the purpose of compiling and updating an official registry of such individuals in Puerto Rico.
Likewise, the integration of the Auxiliary Administration for Older Adults into the Department of Family Affairs was announced. The move is intended to consolidate service programs for the senior population, such as PROSPERA, OPPEA, CAMPEA, and home care services, with the goal of optimizing resources and addressing demographic changes.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the island’s aging index will reach 199 in 2023, meaning there are almost twice as many people aged 65 or older for every 100 children under 15. Municipalities such as Hormigueros, Rincón, and Guaynabo have even higher rates, reflecting accelerated growth in the island’s older adult population.
It is estimated that by 2030, older adults will represent 35% of Puerto Rico’s population. Furthermore, almost 40% of them live below the poverty line, and there has been an increase in cases of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, highlighting the need to strengthen protection and assistance measures.
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