WILLEMSTAD – Social organization Hende-i-Medio-Ambiente (HiMA) is calling for the introduction of an official Caregivers Day on Curaçao as part of broader efforts to recognize and support people providing unpaid long-term care to relatives and loved ones.
The organization argues that informal caregivers play an increasingly essential role within Curaçao’s healthcare system, particularly as the island faces an aging population and mounting pressure on healthcare services.
HiMA is proposing that Curaçao officially recognize November 10 as a Day of the Caregiver, similar to the observance held annually in the Netherlands.
According to the organization, such a day could help increase public awareness and social recognition for people who dedicate years to caring for others without financial compensation.
HiMA also called on the government, healthcare institutions, and social organizations to introduce structural support measures for caregivers.
The organization says caregivers need better access to respite care, psychosocial guidance, and financial compensation for income lost due to caregiving responsibilities.
The issue is becoming increasingly important throughout the Caribbean as demographic changes place more pressure on families and public healthcare systems.
HiMA warned that many families are already struggling to combine caregiving responsibilities with work and financial obligations, particularly in cases involving elderly relatives or long-term illness.
The organization argues that greater recognition and support for caregivers is necessary not only for the well-being of caregivers themselves, but also for the long-term sustainability of Curaçao’s healthcare and social support systems.