Age-old question of duty and care for elders

AS we delve into the discussion of elderly care, the question becomes evident whether the government, individuals, families or NGOs should take on the primary role.

According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), our senior population, defined as those aged 60 and above, currently stands at approximately 3.8 million, representing 11.3% of the population. This marks an increase of 200,000 from the previous year.

The population aged 65 and above totals 2.5 million, accounting for 7.4% of the total population, a rise of 100,000 from the previous year.

Projections of the aged population point towards a significant increase in this number that will more than double by 2035 to reach six million, or 15%-17% of the total population. This population shift highlights the pressing need to address the issue of senior care.

DOSM also revealed in July this year that eight districts have now been labelled as ageing, with more than 7% of their population aged 65 years or older.

They are Johor Bahru, Kota Bharu and Kuala Krai in Kelantan, Seberang Perai Utara and Barat Daya in Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Miri and Ulu Selangor.

The United Nations defines an elderly person as someone who is 60 or older. Nevertheless, the cutoff age in many countries, including Malaysia, remains at 65 years old, due to better access to healthcare in these areas.

These countries follow the categorisation of “ageing” when the number of people above 65 years old exceeds 7%, “aged” when it reaches 14%, and “super-aged” when it surpasses 20%.

The government plays a pivotal role in establishing a safety net for senior citizens in Malaysia, encompassing social programmes, healthcare services, and policies aimed at ensuring their well-being. Among these initiatives is the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme, which demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the financial needs of elderly citizens.

Under the STR programme, eligible senior citizens are those who are single, widowed, divorced, or without children and meet the specified criteria. To qualify under the STR programme, applicants must be aged 60 or above and have a total household income of RM5,000 or lower.

This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to leaving no senior citizen behind during their twilight years. Combined with other government efforts, the STR programme underscores the collaborative approach essential to caring for Malaysia’s ageing society.

Seniors’ quality of life significantly improves through family assistance, which includes both financial and emotional aspects. That is why it is equally essential for individuals and families to take a proactive approach when caring for their elderly relatives.

Families in Malaysia, which have strong roots in filial piety, exemplify respect and care for their parents and elders. With families and communities acting as important support systems for our ageing population, this cultural value becomes the fundamental element of elderly care in our country.

For those elderly individuals who do not receive government or family support, alternative arrangements become necessary. This often leads to the consideration of old folks’ homes or similar care facilities. These establishments provide a crucial lifeline for seniors who may not have the privilege of familial support. Within the confines of these institutions, elderly residents find support and have their needs attended to, their well-being prioritised, and their social interactions nurtured. These care facilities play a vital role in ensuring that elderly citizens are cared for and loved.

The responsibility for elderly care in Malaysia is truly a shared one among the government, individuals, families and NGOs that provide care facilities for the aged.