Acute Care of Elderly Wards launched at SAJ Hospital

The Acute Care of Elderly (ACE) Wards were officially inaugurated today at Sir Anerood Jugnauth (SAJ) Hospital in Flacq in the presence of the Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo, and the Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mrs Anishta Babooram.

Also attending the ceremony were the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Mrs Lisa Simrique Singh, Members of the National Assembly, and health officials.

During the event, the implementation strategy for the ACE Wards’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) was also introduced, marked by the launch of the ACE Ward Comprehensive Medical Assessment Form.

In his address, Minister Bachoo underscored the country’s evolving demographic landscape, noting that approximately 179,000 people—representing 14% of the population—are aged 60 and above.

“The elderly are a national treasure. They embody years of struggle and sacrifice, and each individual carries a wealth of experience that has helped shape the socio-economic development of Mauritius. It is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve,” he stated, reaffirming Government’s commitment to delivering the highest standard of care for older citizens.

The Minister moreover recalled the launch of the first male and female ACE Wards at SSRN Hospital in March this year. He announced that the initiative will be extended to all regional hospitals nationwide by June 2026, marking a major milestone in the structured transformation of geriatric healthcare services.

He likewise highlighted that the ACE Wards are equipped with specialised infrastructure and equipment tailored to the specific needs of older persons. These are supported by holistic, integrated care processes aligned with international standards, ensuring that elderly patients receive dignified, person-centred care.

Regarding the ACE SOPs, the Minister described them as a paradigm shift in elderly care moving away from a purely clinical towards a modern, holistic approach that promotes more comprehensive and coordinated treatment protocols.

Minister Bachoo expressed confidence that these new measures will significantly enhance the quality of care for elderly patients, enabling them to live longer, healthier lives with dignity.

The ACE Wards’ SOPs are designed to ensure the delivery of comprehensive, person-centred care tailored to the clinical and functional needs of older persons. This is achieved through a range of coordinated measures, including the use of validated protocols within a streamlined multidisciplinary care model, improvements to infrastructure and medical equipment to better meet the needs of elderly patients, and the continuous upskilling of staff through regular training programmes.

15 April 2026

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Topics: Health