Barbados has taken a significant step forward in its social care system with the groundbreaking of the Residential and Respite Facility for the Elderly, a project hailed as a transformative milestone by Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey. The ceremony, held at Sterling House in St Philip, marked the beginning of a visionary initiative aimed at redefining care for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and children. Humphrey described the project as “transformation in progress,” emphasizing its role as a model for inclusive care in Barbados. The facility, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, the National Assistance Board, the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association, and Soroptimist International of Barbados, will provide residential and daycare services tailored to seniors, including those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike traditional institutions, the Sterling complex will feature community-style residences designed to foster dignity, care, and a sense of belonging. Phase one involves renovating the existing building to establish a daycare and respite center, with future plans including a dementia complex, residential spaces for individuals with disabilities, and daycare for children. Humphrey highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for interaction across generations to reduce societal divides. Kaila Branch of the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association underscored the urgent need for elder and dementia care, pledging ongoing support to train caregivers and combat stigma. The government plans to replicate the Sterling model island-wide, with similar facilities planned for St Thomas and St George. Humphrey also called for stronger family ties, expressing concern over the growing estrangement of elderly individuals from their families. He credited former minister Cynthia Forde and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley for their pivotal roles in advancing the project. Forde, now Special Advisor on Elder Affairs, praised the facility as a testament to inclusive care, ensuring meaningful integration for all vulnerable groups.