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Beginning on March 26 and led by AARP VI State Director Troy A. de Chabert-Schuster, AARP in The Virgin Islands’ staff and volunteers met virtually with local lawmakers to present the issues that AARP said in a release it is prioritizing in the territory, in particular its campaign to create a more livable community for people of all ages. A virtual meeting was also held on April 26.
The nonprofit said it conducted a survey last year to better understand what Virgin Islanders felt were the main issues affecting them. The survey found that more than 90 percent of the population felt health care, economic and financial stability, and independent living along with long-term care were the top three issues. Additionally, AARP V.I. discussed the need for better housing, transportation, and support for family caregivers.
"AARP in The Virgin Islands is committed to fighting for policies that will empower Virgin Islanders and their families to choose how they live as they age,” said Mr. de Chabert-Schuster. “As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact our territory, we must continue to advocate for older adults, and all Virgin Islanders.”
AARP V.I. said it wants to work with legislators to improve:
- Access to services and support for caregivers. This includes passing legislation addressing all forms of elder abuse, and the creation of an advance directive registry.
- Healthcare quality and access by passing behavioral health and telehealth legislation.
- Transportation connectivity and support systems by passing complete streets policy.
- Financial resilience by revising the USVI Probate Code, creating a provision for electronic wills and electronic notaries.
- Age-friendly housing through the development of assisted living communities and medicare certified nursing homes.
AARP thanked each member of the 34th Legislature for what the nonprofit said was the Senate's "overwhelming support, as we advocate for the needs of the 50+ population and a more livable community for people of all ages."
To learn more about AARP’s efforts and advocacy work in the Virgin Islands, visit www.aarp.org/vi.
