Are we still the Cayman that once revered its elders?

I’ve written a heartfelt reflection on what aging means in today’s Cayman Islands. I invite you to read my story and share your thoughts. Let’s begin the conversation on making our society truly age-friendly—together.

Is the Cayman Islands Still an Age-Friendly Society?

“Age should never define or limit us. It is a part of life’s journey, full of wisdom, dignity, and purpose.”

— Lucille Seymour, community leader and advocate

Growing up in the Cayman Islands in the 1950s, respect for our elders was a cornerstone of our culture. We were taught to adore, honour, and care for older persons. Most Saturdays, especially if you lived near an older family member, your mother would remind you to help them—whether by tending their yard or carrying food. Sundays were special; before eating, we would bring meals to the elders and sit with them, listening to their stories. These moments were priceless. Even if some elders lacked formal education, their narratives transported us across the islands and into their lives before ours began. Age was a badge of honour, and respect was given without question.

In my early years, it was common to live with or near older relatives. My grandmother lived just a stone’s throw away, and every morning, we brought her bread and coffee, waited on her, and spent time with her until evening. She worked hard cooking and washing, but her greatest service was caring for us after school. I loved her dearly.

This upbringing instilled in me a deep respect and care for older persons. We revered our elders, showed good manners, and readily offered help. However, as I have grown older—now 81 years old—I have noticed a cultural shift. Aging seems to have become an impediment. It is common for younger people to ask, “When are you leaving this job? Are you tired? Are you taking a younger person’s job?” These questions make me wonder: Is Cayman truly an age-friendly society?

Today, when I walk or drive around, I rarely see older Caymanians socializing in public spaces, restaurants, or events unless it is a special occasion for seniors. Entertainment and social activities tend to focus on youth. Older persons are often accompanied by caregivers rather than family members. When I was a principal, elders commonly brought children to school; now, it is usually caregivers.

During cruise ship seasons, I do see older persons with mobility aids enjoying the sights, which brings life to our town. Yet, at medical appointments, older persons are mostly accompanied by caregivers, often with a distant look that saddens me. Many older drivers avoid complex driving situations like roundabouts, perhaps reflecting a lack of confidence or support.

This is not a criticism of older persons but an observation of how society treats aging. People are living longer, and our social focus must shift beyond clinical care to include well-being, inclusion, and active participation in community life. While the Council for Older Persons exists, it needs more authority and resources to advocate effectively for seniors.

Over the past thirty years, as Cayman has grown wealthy and attracted people from over 120 nations, the culture of respecting and honouring elders seems to have diminished. The passion, youth, and family closeness that once supported older persons have faded. In my childhood, elders were active in schools and community life, teaching traditional crafts, dances, and stories. Now, with more expatriate teachers and fewer local cultural activities, that connection has weakened.

I recall visiting an elderly grandmother whose daughter, now a lawyer, held a party but did not invite her mother. The grandmother was deeply hurt, feeling embarrassed by her daughter’s friends. This reflects a broader trend where older Caymanians are often absent from family and social gatherings.

Many retirees face financial insecurity as younger, cheaper labour is preferred in the workforce. Caregivers often become the primary—and sometimes only—contact for older persons, aside from church and community volunteers.

As an active elder and community leader, I strive to enjoy life—to dance, laugh, and connect with younger people. But I must admit that sometimes I feel out of place in a society that prioritizes youth. I see signs of aging affecting me, not just physically but socially, as I navigate a world that often overlooks the contributions and needs of elders.

I also understand the importance of tying youth and older persons together in shared progress. My lifelong work in the spirit of netball—from the 1950s through to 2024—has embodied that commitment. Sport, like community, connects generations. I believe that aging is a journey we must nurture—with intention, pride, and the belief that achievement has no age limit.

It is important to recognize that Cayman is making efforts to become more age-friendly. The government and the Council for Older Persons have launched initiatives like the Age Proud Cayman campaign, which challenges stereotypes and promotes respect for elders, emphasizing dignity and participation in all aspects of life. Legislative reforms such as the Older Persons (Amendment) Act, 2024, strengthen protections for older persons, empower the Council, and establish mechanisms like the Older Persons Tribunal to address abuse and neglect. Public forums hosted by the Council encourage community engagement on aging issues, covering topics from health and financial wellness to staying active and planning for the future.

These efforts reflect a commitment to building an age-friendly community where older persons can live with dignity and inclusion. And still—I must say—my lived experience shows that much work remains. Cultural shifts have made it harder to feel that same reverence and presence we once had. Social activities, family structures, and the workplace often reflect youth-centered thinking. Many older persons feel less visible, less integrated.

My story as an elder, volunteer, and leader brings essential insight into how aging is experienced personally amid these changes. It underscores the need not only for sound policy but for cultural renewal—reviving the traditions of honouring elders, promoting intergenerational connection, and ensuring that older persons are fully included and celebrated in Caymanian society.

Let’s Rediscover Cayman’s Heart: A Call to Action

Age should never define or limit us. It is part of life’s journey, filled with wisdom, dignity, and purpose. As someone who has lived, worked, and served this country for over eight decades, I believe deeply that older persons deserve to age with recognition, respect, and joy.

Yes, Cayman has made promising strides. But they must go hand-in-hand with a deeper cultural renewal: one that restores the honour once instinctively given to our elders.

I call on all Caymanians—young and old, in government, private sector, churches, and families—to help shape a Cayman that is truly age-friendly. Let us build communities where older persons are not only cared for but included, not only protected but celebrated. Let us revive the traditions of storytelling, mentorship, and shared belonging across generations.

Join me in creating a Cayman where aging is not hidden, but embraced; where older persons are not seen as relics of the past, but as guides, teachers, and living treasures.

The soul of our nation is revealed in how we treat those who walked the path before us. Let’s walk the next part of the journey—together. And let us remember: we must be the example for others.

About the Author

Lucille Seymour was born almost 81 years ago and began serving her Caymanian community from childhood. Involved in sports since the age of 12 and in education from age 19, she has spent her life as an advocate, shaping Cayman’s growth and culture across generations. A retired public and civil servant, she has served as a former educator, politician, community champion, and lifelong sports founder and manager. Ms. Seymour is a former Permanent Secretary and a pioneer in netball development from the 1950s to 2024, championing intergenerational growth and community wellness. She was honoured by the late Queen Elizabeth II with both the British Empire Medal (BEM) and Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her contributions to education, community development, and sport. In 2025, she was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) by the University College of the Cayman Islands in recognition of her lifelong service. Guided by her personal motto—“If I can help someone as I go along, my living will not be in vain”—she continues to shape her country with wisdom, dignity, and purpose.

Lucille Seymour

Email: lucilleseymour@yahoo.com

Phone: 1 (345) 916-1944