Government starts construction of day home for the elderly in Pedernales province

Pedernales.- The government initiated the construction of a day home for the elderly in Pedernales province, marking a significant step in providing safe and specialized care for senior citizens. With an investment exceeding nine million pesos, the facility, named after Clemente Pérez, a prominent collaborator in Pedernales, will benefit over fifty elderly individuals. The project is financed by the Popular Pension Fund Administrator (AFP). Minister of the Presidency, Joel Santos Echavarría, expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the project, highlighting the support and special collaboration of the Popular AFP and the Popular Group, in addition to the commitment of President Luis Abinader’s government through the National Council for the Aging Person (Conape).

Santos Echavarría emphasized the importance of valuing and providing specialized attention to the elderly, acknowledging that this stage of their lives requires dedicated care. The day home, operational during daylight hours, will offer indoor and outdoor spaces that resemble a home environment. It will provide basic care, allowing seniors to maintain their independence while receiving the necessary support.

The minister expressed delight in knowing that the facility will feature living spaces for rest, sleep, personal hygiene, and safe and independent dining. Moreover, it aims to foster interpersonal relationships among elderly residents. José García Ramírez, the director of Conape, provided details about the day home, which will be constructed in the Alcoa sector on a 1,552.52 square meter plot of land donated by National Assets through the Pedernales Mayor Office. The initial phase of the center will cover an area of 132.20 square meters, accommodating 50 older adults. The construction and associated costs will be managed by AFP Popular, while Conape will oversee authorization, human resources, and operational financing.

García Ramírez highlighted the modern amenities that will be included in the facility, such as sanitary and electrical installations, bedrooms, an administrative office, and a workshop and training room. The day home will offer comprehensive services and monitor the needs of the elderly. Funding for operations has been secured in the 2024 budget, as per President Abinader’s explicit provision. Staff appointments are expected to take place in the third quarter of this year. Governor Altagracia Brea of Pedernales province emphasized that the construction of the day home underscores the government’s commitment to the province and its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly through improved assistance.

Eduardo Grullón, President of AFP Popular, remarked that this facility will become a benchmark for the country. Special attention has been given to the well-being of the staff, with the guidance and support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The project’s inauguration ceremony was attended by various officials, including Elías Dinzey, Manager of the Popular Foundation; Adela Báez, Manager of the Business Division of AFP Popular; Luis José Jiménez, Vice President of Finance and Operations of AFP; Mayor Andrés Emilio Jiménez; and Deputy Edirda de Oleo.