A NUMBER of elderly people in Malaysia are suffering from some form of mental health challenge and the situation is projected to escalate by the year, said a lawmaker.
Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii said there are urgent need to plan for more support facilities to care for elderly people throughout the country.
Speaking at a mental health programme for the elderly in Kuching today, the Sarawak DAP man said there is the latest data compiled by government agencies that are of great concern.
"Some six million people or 14.5 per cent of the total population of Malaysia will be 65 years old by the year 2040, according to data from the National Statistics Department.
"Some 29 per cent of those aged 60 years and above now are experiencing some form of mental health challenges, according to the National Health and Morbidity survey (by the Health Ministry).
"They are facing increasing issues with their health, finances, loneliness as children grow up and leave home, everyday stress and the like.
"Communities must offer more support to these elderly through counselling services and activities to prevent social isolation.
"Families or neighbours who know of any elderly having mental woes must help them seek counselling from trained counsellors," he said.
Dr Yii said care for the elderly must feature more prominently in government planning and policies as our country faces the ageing society dilemma.
On Oct 22, State Minister for Women, Community Wellbeing and Early Childhood Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said new policies need to be drawn up fast as Sarawak will be categorised as an aged state by 2028. - November 24, 2024
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