Bahamas Disability Census Reveals Key Shifts

New census data from the Bahamas reveals a dramatic rise in reported disabilities—over 38,000 people aged five and up, up from just 10,000 in 2010. The jump isn’t due to more people developing disabilities, but to updated, internationally aligned questions that better capture challenges in seeing, hearing, walking, remembering, communicating, and self-care. Women make up 57% of those reporting disabilities, and the rate climbs sharply with age—over 60% of those 80+ report difficulties. Economic disparities are also evident: people with disabilities are more likely to live in low-income households, while those without disabilities are more likely to be in high-income ones. Experts caution that mental and neurological conditions weren’t fully covered, making this data a starting point—not a complete picture. The Bahamas National Statistical Institute is already planning for the 2030 census, aiming to collaborate with disability advocates to create even more inclusive and actionable questions to better support the community. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c7db34c1f0ed4d4e