MATUNGGONG: Healthcare for older persons must take into account each individual’s abilities and health condition to ensure that the services and support provided are appropriate to their respective needs.
Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki said older persons have varying levels of health and physical capabilities, making it necessary to adopt individualised care approaches rather than treating them uniformly based on age alone.
She said some older persons remain healthy and capable of living independently, while others require support to maintain their abilities or assistance with daily activities.
“Care must be tailored to each individual’s circumstances. The goal is not merely to meet their treatment needs, but also to help older persons maintain their abilities, independence and dignity,” she said.
She was speaking at the opening of the 2026 Sabah-level International Day of Older Persons Celebration at the Matunggong Town open hall yesterday.
Julita said the approach is in line with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) concept of Healthy Ageing, which also forms the basis of the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) Elderly Healthcare Services Action Plan 2023-2030.
The plan encompasses various services, including health screening and assessments, medical examinations, treatment, counselling, referrals, home-based care and rehabilitation.
She also stressed that older persons who require assistance must continue to be given opportunities to express their views and participate in decisions concerning their care, according to their respective abilities.
“We must respect the choices and dignity of every older person. The need for assistance should not mean that their right to express their views on their own care is disregarded,” she said.
She expressed hope that individualised care approaches would continue to be strengthened to ensure older persons receive appropriate services. – Wu Vuide
Julita (fifth right), cutting the celebratory cake in conjunction with the Sabah-level International Day of Older Persons Celebration.
