Redefining retirement – the quest for active, independent ageing

Active ageing is attainable when senior citizens empower themselves while external initiatives foster a supportive environment for their well-being.

By Dr Ericson Chia – Health & Wellness Advisor, Sunway Sanctuary

The Department of Statistics Malaysia’s (DOSM) latest statistics have shed light on a significant shift in the society’s demographic landscape. The data released last month (Sept 26) revealed that the average life expectancy at birth for babies born this year is about 75 years. This remarkable increase in life expectancy, compared to 63.6 years in 1970, signifies a tremendous achievement in health and quality of life.

Moreover, for those reaching the age 60 in the present year, the outlook is even more promising, with men expected to live another 18.3 years and women, another 21.1 years. In essence, as Malaysians retire at age 60, officially entering senior citizenship status, they can anticipate another 15, 20 or even more years of life ahead.

This prolonged life expectancy, while a cause for celebration, also raises the question of how will Malaysians ensure the additional years are characterised by good health, financial security and a good quality of life with some social support.

This is where active ageing is imperative.

The World Health Organization has adopted the term “active ageing” as a process of optimising opportunities for health, participation (in social, economic, cultural, spiritual and civic affairs), and security to enhance the quality of life as people age.

Active ageing aims to extend healthy life expectancy and enhance the overall quality of life, including catering to those who are frail, disabled, or in need of care.

Active ageing is a holistic approach that encompasses physical fitness, mental stimulation, social engagement, and emotional well-being. It requires intentional efforts on the part of individuals to take charge of their ageing process while it calls for families, communities, the corporate sector and the government to create an environment that is conducive to active ageing.

This shift in perspective has significant implications for the changing landscape of retirement living.

The changing landscape and trends of retirement living

Three to five decades ago, retirement was generally viewed as the end of one’s working life and the beginning of a more leisurely existence. Retirees would commonly spend their days caring for their grandchildren, pursuing hobbies such as gardening or taking on part-time jobs just to “pass time” (fill their time).

As they age and become less able to care for themselves, adult children would take them in to live with them. With the introduction of day centres, some adult children send their aged parents to these centres, thus freeing them to work with peace of mind.

When the parents became immobile or bed-ridden, domestic helpers were hired as caregivers at home or they were sent to nursing homes.

However, extended family living has become less common, with many elderly parents not residing with their children, who may have moved to different states or countries in pursuit of better job opportunities.

In addition, it was also estimated that 7.4% of elderly people were living alone, according to the 2018 National Health and Morbidity Survey.

Compounding this scenario, Malaysia is expected to have an ageing population by 2030, given the estimate by DOSM that the number of senior citizens, aged 60 and above, is expected to reach 5.8 million or 15% of the total population by then.

With this changing landscape, ageing and retirement are taking on new dynamics. Senior citizens are seeking out ways to embrace ageing with independence and vitality.

Some senior citizen associations play a role in bringing seniors together, educating them about ageing well and providing essential information and connections. Some even advocate for more and better facilities and care for the aged.

While senior citizens strive for active ageing, three different living options are catering to individuals at different stages of ageing and with varying levels of independence and assistance.

The living arrangements include active living for self-sufficient seniors who want a socially active lifestyle, while independent living offers more convenience and support, and assisted living for those who require daily assistance with daily activities.

Active living is designed for seniors who are generally healthy and able to live independently. They may include maintenance, and housekeeping for their condominium living while having access to communal spaces such as fitness centres, dining areas, and social activities.

Seniors in active living communities have the freedom to pursue their interests and socialise.

Independent living is similar to active living but may offer more assistance with daily activities, such as housekeeping and meal services. It is suitable for seniors who can still live independently but prefer to have access to certain conveniences and services that make daily life easier.

Transportation services and emergency response systems may be offered.

Healthcare services are generally not provided in active and independent living, but residents can often access nearby healthcare services.

Assisted living is designed for seniors who require more support with daily activities such as bathing and dressing but do not need the level of care provided in nursing homes.

These facilities usually provide healthcare professionals for residents’ medical needs and emergencies.

A model that has active, independent and assisted living arrangements for seniors is the Sunway Sanctuary. Resident lodging, meals, facilities, amenities, activities, and services are offered.

Its curated experiences such as community engagement /social events or hobby classes, for instance, enable senior citizens to continue their active lifestyle while loneliness is kept at bay.

Meanwhile, an older person with walking problems may be prevented from pursuing an active lifestyle but physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and rehabilitation services can help regain some strength and movement and enable the person to go out and give a talk or socialise.

The shift towards active ageing is a fundamental change that is needed in light of increasing life expectancy in Malaysia.

Embracing this concept empowers individuals, and supported with a conducive living arrangement, enables them to enjoy healthier, more fulfilling lives in their golden years.

For more information please visit the official website www.sunwaysanctuary.com.my