Govt unveils residential homes for elderly

Elderly residential homes Charles Bruzon House and Sea Master Lodge are ready for occupation, with the estates expected to be handed over to tenants soon.

The houses were unveiled and toured yesterday by Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, who commented on the large size of the rooms and ensured that every last detail was elderly friendly.

Minister for Housing Samantha Sacramento and Minister for Town Planning Paul Balban also toured the new premises, which they hope will soon be enjoyed by the elderly.

Charles Bruzon House situated in Europort Avenue has been in the works for over two years. The housing block is named after the late Government Minister for Housing and the Elderly Charles Bruzon who died when holding office in April 2013.

Combining Mr Bruzon’s two ministerial responsibilities the housing estate will provide accommodation in the form of rental flats for the elderly.

Sea Master Lodge is situated within Mons Calpe Mews on Waterport Road. In total both buildings contain 142 flats designed for the elderly.

“‘I am delighted that the elderly people of our community will soon be able enjoy these beautiful homes,” Chief Minister Picardo said.

“Every consideration has been given to their design and advice has been sought from all the relevant agencies. Our elderly residents deserve the best and I am delighted that they will soon be able to enjoy the very highest standards of accommodation.”

“These rental homes also free up large government tenancies which can be taken by younger families which need those larger flats. That's why the development of one rental home for the elderly in effect provides two homes into the government tenancy system."

Mr Picardo also congratulated the construction company on their efforts and said he impressed by the quality of their work.

Non-slip tiles and ample room space have ensured that the flats are suitable for the elderly. Each house in both blocks also includes an easy to access shower. Panic buttons can be found situated in key points within the flats.

Future residents of Charles Bruzon House will be able to enjoy themselves in a shared area filled with tables, chairs, sofas and television screens where they will be able to socialise. A shared kitchen has been constructed so the residents can have parties in the main room and shared on site bathrooms mean residents do not have move far to find facilities.

“We carefully considered all the comments received and we have avoided making similar errors to those made in the older estates,” Ms Sacramento said.

“Our emphasis has been on creating the best possible homes for elderly persons, paying attention to reasonable individual needs. We wanted to provide a space where people could be comfortable and safe. We also wanted to avoid obvious pitfalls which would need to be rectified later at considerable cost.”

She added that throughout the process the government has been in close consultation with several agencies and professionals including the Care Agency and occupational therapists to ensure elderly comfort and safety.