What's Happening?
Bella Farrell, CEO of Health Connections, has advocated for tax increases in Guernsey to support the health services and the ageing population. Her comments follow a Public Health report indicating a rise
in deaths due to dementia and Alzheimer's between 2022 and 2024, continuing a 20-year trend. Farrell emphasized the need for strong community support and preventive services to address health challenges faced by the elderly, who are living longer but not necessarily healthier lives. The report highlights the inevitability of increased dementia cases as the population grows over the next two decades. Jenny Cataroche, head of Health Intelligence, noted that the rise in dementia-related deaths is expected as people live longer, and improvements in treatments for other illnesses increase the likelihood of dying from dementia.
Why It's Important?
The call for tax increases in Guernsey reflects broader challenges faced by regions with ageing populations, where healthcare systems must adapt to meet the needs of older residents. As dementia and Alzheimer's become more prevalent, there is a growing demand for specialized care and support services, which require adequate funding. The situation in Guernsey is indicative of global trends, where ageing populations strain healthcare resources and necessitate policy changes to ensure sustainable support. Tax increases could provide the necessary funding to enhance healthcare infrastructure, improve preventive measures, and support community-based initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for the elderly.
