HEALTH
Elderly: individuals aged 60 years and above as adopted in the United Nations World Assembly on Ageing in Vienna (UN, 1982). Malaysia is expected to become an ageing nation when the percentage of elderly reaches 15% of the total population by 2030.
Ageing is a natural and continuous process. Every individual will go through it at different rates. It is influenced by lifestyle habits and environment. Healthy ageing refers to the effort of practicing a healthy lifestyle so that you can age healthily and remain active throughout life.
Elderly individuals with chronic diseases need to seek regular treatment to prevent more severe complications. Examples of chronic diseases: Hypertension Diabetes Asthma Elderly health screening also includes functional assessments such as: Cognitive decline Mobility Malnutrition Vision problems Hearing loss Depression
All health clinics under the Ministry of Health Malaysia provide healthcare services for the elderly, namely: Health screening for early disease risk detection Treatment/health examination Health promotion, advice and counseling Referral (if necessary) Visits to elderly institutions Home visits There are also Elderly Clubs or Senior Citizen Activity Centres (PAWE) at certain health clinics. The elderly can share experiences, do activities/hobbies together, fill their leisure time, and reduce feelings of loneliness. Please contact the nearest health clinic for this information.
Caring for ageing parents requires preparation in terms of emotions, finances, time, and health care knowledge. As preparation towards becoming an ageing nation, various government support is provided to help caregivers of the elderly. If you are one of the main caregivers for an elderly person, here is a general guide you need to know: Monitor medication intake according to prescribed dose and timing Ensure doctor’s appointments are followed Provide a balanced diet, easy to chew and swallow if there are oral motor problems Monitor water intake to prevent dehydration Ensure the house is free from fall risks such as slippery floors, scattered wires, or loose carpets Use sufficient lighting especially in hallways and bathrooms Install grab bars in bathrooms and toilets Encourage light physical activity daily (e.g. walking, chair stretching exercises) Include enjoyable activities such as gardening, slow dancing, or traditional games that involve body movement Avoid long periods of rest without movement; change positions every 30–45 minutes Support them to carry out daily tasks on their own as long as they are able (dressing, eating, bathing, etc.) Provide assistive equipment such as ergonomic spoons, walking sticks, or shower chairs if needed Involve them in decisions about daily routines to maintain self-esteem and dignity Take care of your own physical and mental health; a healthy caregiver can care better Ask for help from other family members or community services if feeling too tired Join caregiver support groups to share experiences Maintain social relationships with family, neighbours or the community Encourage hobbies and meaningful activities (reading, crafts, gardening, worship) Listen to their views and stories without judgment; this helps emotional well-being Use a large calendar or notice board to remind them of important dates Label cupboards or containers to make items easier to find Encourage mind games such as crossword puzzles, singing old songs or counting money Reference: Ministry of Health Malaysia If you are one of the primary caregivers for an older adult, here are some general guidelines you should be aware of: Financial and Welfare Assistance Determine whether financial assistance is needed, such as the Senior Citizen Assistance (Bantuan Warga Emas) provided by the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) Future Planning Prepare important documents as part of future planning. Essential documents: power of attorney, will, banking information Discuss end-of-life care preferences if appropriate