Addressing aged care needs: Issues and concernsApril 2, 2024
Low social support affects nearly one-third of older adults, 10.4% struggle with food insecurity. Many encounter obstacles due to functional limitations and chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia.
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As the global population ages, the need for comprehensive and effective aged care services becomes increasingly paramount. Professor Dato’ Dr Tengku Aizan, Founding Director, Institute of Gerontology, UPM, recently shed light on the pressing issues and concerns surrounding aged care at the Future Healthcare Asia 2024 conference.
Health of older Malaysians According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018, significant challenges confront Malaysia's elderly population. Nearly one-third of individuals aged 60 and above reported low social support, while food insecurity affected 10.4% of the elderly. Functional limitations and instrumental activities of daily living presented obstacles for many, with a substantial portion facing chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia. Moreover, hearing and vision disabilities, falls, stress urinary incontinence, dementia, depressive symptoms, and elder abuse were prevalent among surveyed individuals. Healthcare systems in ASEAN The healthcare landscape in Southeast Asia is diverse, shaped by geographic, social, cultural, and economic factors. While countries like Singapore boast advanced healthcare systems with high private contributions, others struggle to provide basic healthcare services. Demographic transitions, rapid urbanization, and epidemiological shifts from infectious to chronic diseases pose significant challenges. Additionally, the region's susceptibility to natural disasters and emerging infectious diseases underscores the importance of robust healthcare infrastructure and cooperation. World Health Organization (WHO) perspectives The WHO defines eldercare as the provision of specialized support to senior citizens, encompassing both informal and formal caregiving. Major challenges include coping with aging bodies, maintaining societal integration, and navigating evolving healthcare landscapes. Investment in aging populations yields numerous benefits, including improved health outcomes, social connectivity, and economic contributions. However, the return on investment depends on effective policy implementation and resource allocation. Mapping aged care sector in Malaysia Aged care services in Malaysia span residential facilities, institutions, day care centers, and community-based initiatives. However, capacity constraints, resource limitations, and fragmented care models hinder the sector's efficacy. Government-supported initiatives coexist with NGO-operated facilities, but gaps in registration and licensing contribute to unregulated practices. Training for caregivers and support for family members remain essential components of Malaysia's aged care framework. Challenges and solutions Addressing the needs of aging populations requires a multifaceted approach encompassing policy reform, infrastructure development, and community engagement. Enhanced coordination between government agencies, NGOs, and private stakeholders is crucial for optimizing resource utilization and improving service delivery. Moreover, investing in primary healthcare as a gateway to secondary and tertiary services can mitigate healthcare costs and enhance accessibility. Adopting an integrated continuum of care, as advocated by the WHO, promotes holistic support for older adults while upholding their rights and dignity. Aging poses complex challenges for healthcare systems across Malaysia and Southeast Asia. By prioritizing investment in aged care infrastructure, fostering collaboration between stakeholders, and implementing evidence-based policies, societies can better address the diverse needs of their aging populations. With concerted efforts and strategic planning, the region can build a sustainable and inclusive aged care ecosystem that ensures the well-being and dignity of older adults for generations to come. |
