02/12/2025

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Malaysian Paper

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By 2030, more than 15% of Malaysians will be aged 60 and above. – FREEPIKPIC

Reimagining elderly care in Malaysia

A demographic revolution is sweeping across Malaysia, poised to redefine our society and challenge our healthcare system. By 2030, more than 15% of Malaysians will be aged 60 and above as we face a critical crossroad where the traditional hospital-centric model of care is no longer sufficient. However, this shift is not a crisis. Instead, it is a powerful opportunity to reimagine how we care for our older Malaysians and build a society that honours ageing with dignity, independence and purpose. Geriatric gap: Wake-up call for healthcare Geriatrics, the branch of medicine focused on older adults, is no longer a niche specialty. It is a national priority. Older adults face a unique blend of physical, cognitive, emotional and social challenges. These often manifest as complex “geriatric syndromes” such as frailty, falls, incontinence, and cognitive decline, which require coordinated, interdisciplinary care. Yet, Malaysia currently has only 67 geriatricians, far short of the estimated 700 needed to meet growing demand. This shortage is compounded by a healthcare workforce stretched thin, unattractive financial incentives in geriatrics and longer training pathways compared to countries such as Australia and Singapore. The consequences are severe: long waiting times, delayed diagnoses and overburdened hospitals. But this gap also presents a

enhance and not replace the human connection. Community engagement and volunteer programmes remain vital to combat loneliness and promote holistic health. compassionate future together The future of care of older Malaysian depends on all of us to create a united, multi-sectoral approach. Healthcare providers, policymakers, social enterprises, families and communities must come together to bridge the geriatric gap and create a system that values ageing as a stage of life that is not declining, but filled with potential. We must invest in training, reform policies, embrace innovation and foster empathy and compassionate culture. As Malaysia’s older population grows, so must our commitment to honouring their dignity and lifelong contributions. Ageing should not be seen as a burden, but as a stage of life worthy of respect, innovation and empathy. By shifting from a hospital-centric model to a community-integrated system, Malaysia can ensure its elders live with independence, dignity and comprehensive care. This article is contributed by Assoc Prof Dr Yau Weng Keong, director of the Active Ageing Impact Lab at Taylor’s University and Dr Liong Siok Fuang, senior lecturer & family medicine specialist at the Department of Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya. Call to action: Building

o Supporting, empowering seniors

all. But with two-thirds of outpatient visits occurring in public clinics, this policy is under pressure. To sustain this legacy, we must find ways to balance affordability with quality. Strengthening community clinics, investing in geriatric training and integrating public-private partnerships can help maintain access while improving care. Legislation, technology, road ahead Big changes are on the horizon. The upcoming Senior Citizens Bill promises to protect older adults from financial scams, abuse and neglect. It will also enshrine their rights to healthcare, safety and dignity, bringing Malaysia closer to international best practices. But legislation alone is not enough. Care for older persons in Malaysia is still improvable. A unified, cross-sector strategy is needed to ensure consistent, effective care. Technology can play a key role in this aspect. Telemedicine, wearable health devices and digital platforms can connect patients with doctors, monitor health remotely and educate caregivers. But tech must

compassionate, it is essential for a healthcare system that values dignity and autonomy. Community innovation: Lighting the way forward Despite the challenges, Malaysia is already seeing progress. The National Policy for Older Persons ( Dasar Warga Emas Negara ) promotes holistic well-being, covering health, social engagement, environment, economy and spirituality. Programmes such as Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas help seniors stay socially connected and active. Social enterprises are also stepping up. Teman MY Ventures PLT, for example, pairs older adults with trained companions called “Temanions” who assist with daily tasks and provide emotional support. This model not only improves quality of life but also creates meaningful jobs in the caregiving sector with growing demand. Affordable care: Legacy worth preserving Malaysia’s public healthcare system has long been praised for its affordability. Outpatient clinic visits cost just RM1, ensuring access for

chance to invest in a better future. By training more geriatricians and empowering primary care doctors with geriatric knowledge, we can build a healthcare system that truly supports ageing well. Unspoken challenge: End-of-life care, autonomy One of the most delicate, sensitive, often avoided topics – which is a vital aspect of elderly care – is end-of-life planning. Nearly 70% of deaths in Malaysia occur among those aged 60 and above, yet conversations about care preferences are often avoided. Without legal tools such as advanced directives or durable power of attorney, families and doctors are left guessing what their loved ones would have wanted. Advance Care Planning empowers older adults to make informed decisions about their treatment and care. It ensures their wishes are respected, even in their final days. Normalising these discussions is not just