Georgetown, Guyana, 28 November 2025– The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in partnership with the Ministry of Health’s Elderly Care Unit, recently hosted a two-day workshop focused on the Integrated Care for Older Persons (ICOPE) approach. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen long-term care services and improve the health and well-being of older adults in Guyana.
The workshop brought together 28 participants, including caregivers from elderly homes and geriatric institutions, health workers, and allied health professionals. Leading the sessions were Dr. Melissa De Haarte from the Elderly Care Unit and Dr. Janice Woolford, Specialist, Family and Community Health at PAHO Guyana.
Building Capacity for Better Care
The primary objectives of the workshop were to:
- Train informal caregivers in managing the health of older persons.
- Introduce methods for implementing the ICOPE long-term care universal package for health coverage.
- Identify the needs, opportunities, and capacities of caregivers to enhance efficiency, productivity, and quality of care.
Key Areas of Focus
Participants engaged in discussions and practical sessions covering:
- Current standards of long-term care for the elderly.
- Functional evaluation and fall prevention strategies.
- Nutritional guidelines and recommendations for older adults.
- Promoting health and well-being throughout the aging process.
Looking Ahead
The knowledge gained during the workshop will inform the upcoming ICOPE evaluation at healthcare facilities, which aims to assess improvements in elderly care and provide actionable recommendations for further enhancement.
PAHO continues to support interventions that strengthen health systems and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that older persons receive comprehensive, quality care.
