WILLEMSTAD – The fundraising efforts by Bethesda are highlighting deeper structural issues within Curaçao’s elderly care system, which the institution says has been underfunded for years.
According to board chair Coryse Barendregt, the financial challenges extend far beyond the current campaign. Costs related to housing and maintenance are not adequately covered, leaving facilities in deteriorating condition.
The main building at Bethesda, she noted, has not undergone proper maintenance in more than 25 years. “We simply do not have the budget to finance this ourselves,” Barendregt said.
At the same time, demand for elderly care is rising. Curaçao has a relatively high aging population, with around one-third of residents aged 60 and older—significantly higher than in the Netherlands. Many of these individuals live with chronic conditions, increasing both the complexity and cost of care.
Barendregt pointed to long-standing concerns about the sector’s financing model. Since 2012, multiple reports have concluded that tariffs for nursing homes need to be increased, but these adjustments have not been implemented in a structural way.
The Regulatory Authority Curaçao is currently conducting a new cost-price study, which could have major implications for the sector. According to Barendregt, the findings may point to a required increase in funding of four to five times current levels.
However, uncertainty remains over whether the government will adopt and implement any recommended changes. Legal avenues offer little clarity, she added, as courts have indicated that such matters fall within the responsibility of the government.
Despite these challenges, Bethesda continues to provide care with limited resources. The institution also highlighted the importance of geriatric rehabilitation, which allows patients recovering from surgery or stroke to receive care at lower cost than extended hospital stays.
While hospital care can cost up to 2,000 guilders per day, rehabilitation offers a more affordable alternative. However, according to Barendregt, this potential for cost savings is not yet fully reflected in policy decisions.
The situation underscores growing concerns about the sustainability of elderly care on the island, as institutions struggle to meet increasing demand without adequate financial support.