KUCHING: The Ministry for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development has identified ageing as one of the 13 main social issues to address in the state.
Its Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said this initiative is part of early preparations as Sarawak is expected to become an ageing state by 2028.
“Sarawak will become an ageing state by 2028. It will be one of the fastest-ageing states compared to others.
“By then, the elderly population will reach 15 per cent, whereas it is currently about 10 per cent,” she said at the “Empowering the Elderly Programme: Unravelling Dementia” at the Kuching Community Social Support Centre (CSSC) today (Nov 22).
Fatimah explained that the primary impact of dementia observed in the elderly is forgetfulness.
The second category includes confusion and depression, followed by a lack of awareness about dementia, which often leads to delayed treatment.
Regarding the programme, Fatimah said the information shared by the speakers is expected to enhance the community’s understanding of dementia symptoms.
Earlier, around 50 participants from the Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PAWE) attended the programme.
“The sharing of information about dementia is very useful for everyone, and our objective is to raise awareness.
“Early intervention can help, and this sharing can delay or slow down the progression of dementia,” she said.
