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30 Oct 2023
5 Min Read
Taylor's Impact Lab (Active Ageing Impact Lab)
As our population ages, the prevalence of dementia is on the rise. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2022, it is estimated that around 8.5% of older adults, or roughly 260,000 people in Malaysia are living with dementia. The Alzheimer's Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM) projects that this number will more than triple to approximately 825,000 by the year 2050 – a prediction largely based on data that shows that Malaysia is en route to becoming an aged nation.
An article in the New Straits Times reports that already in 2020, “more than seven per cent of Malaysia's population were 65 and above, making the country an "ageing nation". At the current trajectory, those 65 and above are projected to double to 14 per cent by 2044 (aged nation) and to 20 per cent by 2056, thus classifying Malaysia as a "super-aged" nation. At this rate, Malaysia will transform from an ageing nation to an aged nation in just under 25 years.”
The article puts this into context, “It took France 115 years, Sweden, 85 years and the United Kingdom, 45 years to achieve a similar scenario. The major difference is that these countries had adequate time to develop and prepare by increasing per capita efficiency and gradually raising the retirement age as they made the ascent to a super-aged nation.”
This scenario poses a significant challenge for local caregivers and healthcare professionals, particularly if they are unprepared. The complex and unique demands of dementia care often leave caregivers feeling overwhelmed and ill-equipped to manage the cognitive, behavioural, and emotional changes associated with the condition. Recognising the urgency of addressing this issue, a workshop on developing effective skills in Dementia Care was organised by the Taylor’s University Active Ageing Impact Lab on 2 July 2023.
Led by well-known gerontologist and dementia care advocate and activist, the esteemed Dr. Cecelia Chan, the workshop aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and expertise needed to provide optimal care for individuals living with dementia. The workshop tackled key aspects such as effective communication techniques, person-centered care, creating supportive environments, and managing challenging behaviors.
Dr. Cecelia's insights were brought to life through her sharing of a compelling case study involving a woman with dementia who refused to take baths. Through careful observation, Dr. Cecelia had discovered that the woman could not recognise herself in the mirror, leading to confusion and resistance. By removing the mirror, the caregiver successfully helped her overcome her bathing aversion, highlighting the importance of person-centered care and tailored approaches.
Participants were thrilled with their learning experience, finding the content practical and relevant. Dr. Cecelia's evidence-based strategies resonated deeply with them, as they could immediately apply them in their caregiving roles. The workshop's interactive nature fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas. It allowed participants to deepen their understanding by exposing them to engaging case studies and dynamic discussions.
The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the workshop's effectiveness in addressing the pressing need for specialised dementia care education. Participants expressed a genuine desire to further develop their skills and knowledge, highlighting the importance of ongoing learning and professional development in this field. They eagerly endorsed the idea of future workshops and seminars at Taylor's University, recognising the value of staying up to date with the latest advancements and best practices in dementia care.
Mr. Gregory Dennis, Founder, Imagineer, and Creative Director of GSM Arts & Crafts, a company active in the caregiving service sector, was a workshop participant who is developing teaching materials for individuals with special needs, a group that also includes dementia patients. Impressed by Dr. Cecilia's expertise, he highly recommends the workshop for its valuable insights and practical strategies on dementia care. The opportunity to network with other professionals and caregivers further enriched his knowledge in the field. He believes the workshop is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in caring for individuals with special needs, particularly dementia patients.
Ms. Jennifer Soh (lady in the maroon shirt) attended the workshop to better equip herself as a caregiver to her mother, who is displaying early signs of dementia. Ms. Paramjeet Kaur (lady in green blouse), a dedicated caregiver at the Pertubuhan Pembangunan Kemasyarakatan Sikh Malaysia in Ulu Yam who recognises the inherent challenges involved in handling dementia patients, came to the workshop to enhance her skills. Both participants found the workshop experience valuable, adding depth to their knowledge and expertise. They expressed their enthusiasm for attending similar workshops in the future, as continuous learning and growth was important in providing quality care.
Madam Yeow Lee Mee attended the workshop with a deep desire to learn how to care for her husband, who had been showing early signs of dementia. Having witnessed her elder brother's recent passing due to dementia, she is gravely concerned about her husband's well-being. A devoted follower of Dr. Cecelia, Madam Yeow felt that the workshop was too short. Nevertheless, she acknowledged the immense value of the experience.
The “Developing Effective Skills in Dementia Care” workshop provided valuable tools and insights to caregivers, healthcare professionals, and family members. Through these initiatives aimed at improving the well-being and quality of life for individuals with dementia, Taylor’s Active Ageing Impact Lab hopes to foster a compassionate and understanding society that respects and supports the needs of those living with the condition. To learn more about dementia care and how to get involved, the public can participate in our Impact Lab’s programmes, workshops and activities.
This meaningful workshop is closely aligned with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goal 3 Good Health and Well-being that aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The Taylor’s University Active Ageing Impact Lab continues to seek synergies with like-minded industry partners and external experts who can work together with motivated students and dedicated academic staff at Taylor’s University to develop better solutions for active ageing and dementia care that will benefit the elderly members of our ageing Malaysian nation. Contact us to explore how you and your organisation can work with us on similar initiatives.
