Today the Minister of Health the Hon. Kim Wilson JP MP announced that, starting on Monday, the Ministry of Health’s Ageing & Disability Services (ADS) will be conducting wellness checks on the island’s vulnerable seniors.
“The wellness checks are our way of making sure that Bermuda’s most vulnerable have what they need to stay safe and well during this pandemic,” said Minister Wilson. “Many of them have no or limited next of kin support on which they can rely to ensure they have sufficient supplies of groceries and medications so our ADS officers will be visiting them, assessing their needs and assisting where needed."
In addition, ADS officers will be distributing hand sanitizer, along with COVID-19 information flyers, to seniors and vulnerable persons throughout the community. These items will also be distributed at the following locations throughout the next two weeks:
- Bermuda Housing Trust Properties (five housing complexes – Dr. Cann Park, Elizabeth Hills, Ferguson Park, Heydon Park & Purvis Park)
- Salvation Army Shelter
- Supermarkets
- Banks
- Various senior residences
“Regarding the distribution of hand sanitizer, the ADS team will mobilize on Monday afternoon and begin with Bermuda Housing Trust properties,” said Minister Wilson. “They will then target the supermarkets and banks during their seniors’ hours on Tuesday and the remaining will be spread out throughout the week and into the next.
"This will be a phased programme to ensure we reach those who most need our help."
More than 1,200 personal hand sanitizer bottles will be distributed over the next two weeks with more, larger ‘pump bottles’ on order and scheduled to arrive soon.
Any members of the public who know of a vulnerable senior needing help can call ADS at: 292-7802.