N※N

Guam Senior Centers Struggle Amid DPHSS Support Gap

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ior-centers-struggle-amid-dphss-support-gap.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 7:17 GMT by Pacific Daily News
      Locales: Guam, UNITED STATES

By Arleene A. Toves, Journal Staff Writer

Thursday, February 5th, 2026 - Guam's senior citizens continue to face limited access to vital social and health services as municipal leaders express growing frustration with the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) over a protracted lack of support for the island's senior centers. While the initial wave of COVID-19 restrictions has passed, the lingering effects on these crucial community hubs remain substantial, leaving many of Guam's most vulnerable residents isolated and underserved.

The issue dates back to March 2020, when senior centers across Guam shuttered their doors as a precaution against the spread of the virus. A gradual reopening occurred with reduced capacity, but full restoration of services hinges on assistance from DPHSS, specifically in the areas of COVID-19 testing, sanitation supplies, and adequate personnel. Mayors have been requesting this support for over a year, yet progress remains stalled.

Piti Mayor Rudolph Blas Jr. voiced the widespread concerns of his colleagues, stating, "We've been waiting for that support since last year. We requested the resources so the senior centers can safely reopen. We needed COVID-19 testing to make sure the seniors are safe, proper sanitation and personnel." He emphasizes the devastating consequences of the continued delays. "They're saying they're short-staffed and they have limited resources, but we have seniors who are isolated and need those services. They rely on those centers for meals, socialization and vital health checks."

The problem isn't simply a lack of funding, Blas believes, but a breakdown in communication. "It's a communication issue, I think," he explained. "We need to work together to make sure we're looking out for the vulnerable populations." Letters detailing these needs were directed to DPHSS Director Arthur U. Perez, but Mayor Blas reports no direct response has been received.

Dededo Mayor Eriberto Torres echoed these sentiments, stating, "We've been trying to coordinate with DPHSS but it's been difficult." While acknowledging the challenges faced by the department, Torres insists the impact on seniors is significant. "We have seniors who are isolated. They need somewhere to go where they can socialize and get meals," he said. "Without the support, we can't safely reopen the centers."

A Growing Crisis of Senior Isolation

The closure - or limited operation - of senior centers has contributed to a burgeoning crisis of social isolation among Guam's elderly population. Beyond providing meals, these centers serve as critical social outlets, combatting loneliness and depression, which are known risk factors for declining health. Regular health checks offered at many centers often provide the first line of defense in identifying and addressing potential health issues before they become severe. The lack of access to these services has led to increased concerns about the overall well-being of seniors.

The Broader Implications of Resource Allocation

The situation highlights a wider issue of resource allocation within Guam's public health system. While DPHSS contends with staffing shortages and budgetary constraints - common problems for many government agencies - the prioritization of services for vulnerable populations is now being questioned. Experts suggest a comprehensive review of resource distribution is needed to ensure the needs of seniors are adequately met.

Potential Solutions and Future Steps

Several potential solutions are being considered. Mayors are calling for a dedicated task force comprised of representatives from DPHSS, municipal governments, and senior advocacy groups to collaboratively address the challenges. Increased funding for senior centers, potentially through federal grants or local budgetary adjustments, is also being discussed. Some community organizations have proposed offering temporary volunteer support to assist with COVID-19 testing and sanitation protocols, bridging the gap until DPHSS can provide adequate personnel.

Another key area of focus is improved communication. Mayors are suggesting regular meetings with DPHSS leadership and a more streamlined process for submitting and tracking requests for assistance.

The Journal attempted to reach DPHSS for comment on this developing situation but received no response by press time. The lack of a timely response further exacerbates the frustration felt by municipal leaders and underscores the urgent need for a resolution. The well-being of Guam's senior population depends on a swift and coordinated effort to restore full services to these vital community centers.