LETTERS: Senior citizens will make up a sizeable portion of Malaysia's population in the near future.
According to the Statistics Department and the Health Ministry, Malaysia is projected to become an ageing nation by 2030.
Therefore, addressing the needs of the elderly is essential. This underscores the critical role of caregivers.
They are indispensable in maintaining the health, independence and quality of life of senior citizens.
They provide a range of services, including medical, dental, nursing and personal care, as well as companionship, emotional support, and assistance with household chores.
Caregivers often serve as the primary connection to the outside world for the elderly. Their role is vital for patients suffering from conditions such as stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and kidney failure.
Caregiving is demanding, physically and emotionally. Caregivers often sacrifice their time and wellbeing to attend to the needs of senior citizens, performing tasks such as lifting, transferring, feeding and managing medical equipment.
The stress, anxiety and depression associated with caregiving can take a toll on mental health. Isolation and loneliness are common, exacerbated by the lack of free time.
Well-supported caregivers are better equipped to provide high-quality care, which in turn reduces mortality rates among senior citizens. Government intervention is crucial in this matter.
Scholarships and grants can alleviate the financial burden of caregivers, while educational interventions equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Allowing caregivers time to rest ensures they can continue to pro vide high-quality care.
DR AZLEEN ILIAS
Senior Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Finance, UNITEN Business School, Universiti Tenaga Nasional
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times