THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has recorded improvements in the condition and care of residents at the Palms Geriatric Home, following an unannounced inspection by Minister Vindhya Persaud in July.
Persaud returned to the Brickdam facility on Friday, September 18, to assess whether concerns raised during her earlier visit had been addressed, with improvements observed in the maintenance of the compound, organisation of wards and residents’ care records, and attention to routine check-ups.
The Palms, Guyana’s oldest elderly residential facility, has been in existence since 1878 and provides accommodation, meals, medical services and recreational activities for older persons, including those who are homeless or have experienced neglect, abuse or exploitation.
During Friday’s follow-up visit, the compound was found to be better maintained, with weeds cleared and the wards described as neater and more orderly. Nurses’ charts and other information were also better organised, while greater attention was reportedly being given to residents and their regular medical checks.
Persaud commended the administration and nurses on duty for responding to the concerns raised during her July inspection, but stressed that further work is necessary.
The minister’s follow-up comes against the backdrop of broader efforts to improve elderly care. The Government allocated $18 million in the 2026 Budget for repairs to the Palms, while also announcing plans for the construction of a new senior citizens’ home with modern amenities.
The ministry has also announced a $1.2 billion National Care Economy Co-Invest Initiative aimed at expanding affordable home- and community-based care services for children and older persons. The programme includes support for individuals, community groups, non-governmental organisations and faith-based agencies seeking to establish care facilities.
Persaud has maintained that improving elderly care requires attention not only to physical infrastructure, but also to the quality of services and treatment provided to residents.
The Palms is managed by an administrator responsible for daily operations, while a matron oversees patient care and a social worker provides psychosocial counselling. The facility’s admission process also involves assessment by its social worker and an in-house gerontologist.
While Friday’s inspection identified progress since the minister’s earlier visit, Persaud indicated that the improvements should be regarded as part of an ongoing effort to ensure that residents live in a clean, safe and supportive environment and receive the attention and care appropriate to their needs.
With the historic facility approaching its 150th anniversary, continued rehabilitation and improvements in care remain significant as Guyana expands its wider social protection and elderly-care services.
