It’s not how old you are. It’s how you are old.
– Jules Renard, French author
Ageing is one factor we humans have in common and cannot avoid.
However, ageing remains one of life’s most overlooked and under-discussed issues. As we grow older, we face new challenges, experiences, and perspectives that shape our existence.
Despite this, the topic of ageing is often stigmatised, shrouded in myths, and neglected by society at large. In reality, ageing is a crucial part of our journey, and it’s time we start talking about it.
As an ageing person, I have realised that in today’s fast-paced world, not many of us take the time to consider what will happen to us during our twilight years.
Admittedly, it is not easy for me to think about the future when I may become increasingly dependent and lose the ability to perform my daily activities without assistance.
It can be pretty unsettling to imagine a life where I will require help doing even the simplest tasks.
So, what exactly are the concerns of people as people age? Of course, these concerns will vary depending on individual circumstances and life experiences. Let’s take a look at some common concerns of ageing people.
As people age, they may experience declining health, chronic medical conditions, or disabilities that can impact their quality of life. Many seniors are concerned about maintaining their health and independence as they age.
Older adults may also be concerned about their financial security in retirement, including needing more money to cover healthcare costs and living expenses.
As people age, they may experience decreased social connections due to retirement, mobility issues, or losing loved ones. Social isolation can have negative impacts on mental health and well-being.
Older adults may be concerned about caring for loved ones, such as spouses or ageing parents, or receiving care themselves.
Older adults may be concerned about finding suitable and affordable housing options as they age, particularly if they need to downsize or move to a new location for healthcare reasons.
Seniors citizens may also be concerned about personal safety and security, particularly if they live alone or in an area with high crime rates.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the number of individuals aged 60 and above is projected to reach two billion by 2050, up from 900 million in 2015.
The 2021 statistics show that Malaysia’s population aged 60 years and above was 3.52 million, 10.7 per cent of the country’s total population.
The population aged 60 years and above in Sarawak was 194,700, which accounted for 9.2 per cent of the state’s total population. It is projected that 15 per cent of Sarawak’s population will comprise individuals aged 60 years and above by 2030.
As someone already part of this demographic, this statistic underscores the importance of planning and preparing for my future.
Many people have an extended ageing period thanks to the remarkable advancements in medicine and public health.
However, the quality of care and support available in the future is a cause for concern.
The impact of this demographic shift is already being felt across the country’s economy and social welfare system. With a growing proportion of older citizens and fewer young people to support them, Malaysia is facing significant challenges in providing for its elderly population.
The impact of Malaysia’s ageing population on its economy is significant. Older citizens tend to have different spending patterns than younger people, focusing more on healthcare and other services.
This can lead to changes in demand for goods and services, which can affect the economy’s overall health. For example, a study by the United Nations Population Fund found that the ageing of Malaysia’s population could result in lower economic growth rates, higher healthcare costs, and a shrinking workforce.
As more Malaysians retire and require healthcare services and other forms of support, the burden on the country’s healthcare system and social welfare programmes will also increase.
This can pressure government budgets and lead to difficult choices about allocating resources.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg addressed issues related to ageing recently.
He said Sarawak should ready itself for an impending ageing population predicted to occur in 2030. This projection entails that 15 per cent of Sarawak’s population will comprise individuals aged 60 years and above.
He is giving full support to the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development led by Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah for a study on the ageing population in Sarawak due to the need to prepare for this projected ageing population. He emphasised the need to have a support system for the ageing society.
The expectations of people over 60 years old from the government include easy and comprehensive access to affordable healthcare, financial security, access to social services, and age-friendly policies and infrastructure.
They may require more specialised medical care, financial assistance programmes, community centres, and senior centres, as well as age-friendly policies that promote healthy ageing and independence.
Overall, older adults expect their governments to prioritise policies and programmes that support their health, financial security, and quality of life as they age.
The government is exploring partnerships with private organisations to increase the availability and accessibility of long-term care services, promote intergenerational programmess, and provide financial incentives for caregivers of older adults, amongst many other initiatives.
By implementing these initiatives, the Sarawak government can improve the quality of life for its ageing population and ensure they can age with dignity and independence.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
