Willemstad – June 9, 2026 – Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) is piloting a dedicated Geriatric Room, which is starting with four patients on ward C1. This initiative is designed to better support hospitalized patients aged 65 and older who still require hospital care. The initiative responds to Curaçao’s rapidly aging population. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics Curaçao, more than one in four people on the island (25.3%) is now 65 years or older, compared to less than 14% a decade ago.
The room is a regular four-bed hospital room where patients receive standard medical care, but with additional focus on mobility, nutrition, and social interaction. Patients are encouraged to get out of bed, sit together at a shared table, participate in simple activities, and move regularly with support from CMC volunteers and physiotherapy staff. This structured daily approach helps prevent physical decline, confusion, and loneliness, which can occur when older patients remain in bed for long periods during hospitalization.
The concept was developed by CMC’s geriatric team, including geriatrician Dr. Schakel and geriatric nurse Sterre Noordhoek. Noordhoek coordinates the initiative together with head nurse Desire Ventura of ward C1. Daily activities are supported by ward nurses, physiotherapy staff, and nine trained volunteers under the supervision of ward leadership and hospital management.
CMC Launches Geriatric Room to Support Recovery of Older Patients – 9 di yüni 2026 – 4
“Many patients arrive at the hospital still able to walk independently but leave weaker after days of bed rest,” said Noordhoek. “By encouraging movement, social interaction, and structure throughout the day, we aim to support recovery and help patients maintain their independence.”
If successful, CMC intends to gradually introduce similar geriatric patient rooms on other wards, integrating the concept into the hospital’s regular care approach as Curaçao’s aging population continues to grow.
