The Maldives Medical Conference has officially launched, with a focus on treatments for the elderly, with the increasing proportion of the elderly in the population.
The conference was attended by doctors from hospitals across the Maldives, as well as other healthcare professionals. This marks the second such conference organised by the Maldives Medical Association.
The theme of this year's conference is "Geriatrics: Let's Talk Aged Care". The slogan reflects the importance of elderly care, which is very important for the Maldives and other countries facing similar demographic changes.
The conference was launched by the President of the Maldives Medical Association, Dr Ahmed Rasheed. By 2030, seven percent of the Maldives’ population is expected to be over 75 years of age. This figure is expected to increase to 10% by 2040, he added. He stressed the need for the country to prepare in advance for such potential hits. He said one in every 10 people will be over 65 within the next 20 years.
“The Maldives must be ready to prepare for such rapid demographic changes. How can we go about this? First of all, by keeping the elderly physically, mentally and socially active”, Rasheed said.
In addition, it is important to ensure early treatment and regular screening to prevent or delay physical disability, the doctor noted. He said screenings or check-ups can be conducted for the elderly.
The two-day conference, initiated by the Maldives Medical Association, will discuss the need to improve the quality of care for the elderly and facilitate solutions.