Last week, Ageing & Disability Services hosted its annual event to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which falls on Monday, June 15th. To recognise the day and spread awareness of elder abuse, the team hosted a Seniors’ Bingo day at Devonshire Recreation Club.

Minister of Youth, Social Development & Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, presented opening remarks.

Minister Furbert stated, “We come together today as Ageing and Disability Services hosts your Seniors’ Bingo, close to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15th. That day calls us to protect the dignity, the rights, and the well-being of our older adults. But I don’t only want to speak about what we protect you from. I want to speak about what you deserve: to feel safe, to feel seen, to feel cherished, and to know you are never alone.

“Before I am a Minister, I am somebody’s child. I have ageing parents of my own, and I’ll be honest with you, when I look out, I am reminded how beautiful ageing can be. With its wisdom, with its strength, with its spirit that built the Bermuda we love. I feel that spirit, and I feel it filling this room right now.

“Because this is the truth I want you to carry home: Bermuda is your home, and it loves you without question. You raised us. You worked, sacrificed, and prayed for us. You carried this country on your shoulders. So today, my wish is that you feel held by your community, just as you have always held us.

“And yes, I know just how seriously we take our bingo, and rightly so! But a day like this gives us something alongside the game we love: friendship, laughter, and good.  I’ll ask just one thing of you all: keep showing up for each other. Check on the neighbour who has gone quiet. Call the friend you haven’t seen lately. Staying connected is one of the most loving and most protective things we can do for one another.

“To the team at Ageing and Disability Services, let me express my profound appreciation and gratitude. Thank you for the care you put into events like this.”