Loneliness driving Malta’s care home demand, conference told
Loneliness Fuelling Malta’s Care Home Boom: A Closer Look
Picture this: Malta’s bustling Republic Street, the heart of Valletta, teeming with life. Yet, amidst the vibrant scene, there’s a silent, growing concern. According to a recent conference, loneliness is driving a surge in demand for care homes across our islands.
Alone in the Crowd
Malta, with its warm climate and welcoming culture, is often seen as a haven for the elderly. Yet, ironically, it’s here that many seniors feel isolated. A 2021 study by Age UK found that one in four people aged 65 and over in Malta feel lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’.
This loneliness isn’t just an emotional burden. It’s a practical issue too. Many elderly Maltese, feeling alone and vulnerable, are turning to care homes for security and companionship.
Care Homes: The New Normal?
Malta’s care home sector is booming. According to the Malta Union of Nurses and Midwives, the number of care homes has doubled in the past decade. From the quaint streets of Rabat to the modern avenues of Birkirkara, care homes are springing up across the islands.
But is this boom sustainable? Or even desirable? ‘We’re seeing a shift in societal norms,’ says Dr. Maria Grech, a geriatrician at Mater Dei Hospital. ‘Care homes are becoming the new normal, but we must ask: is this what our elderly truly want?’
Community Care: The Alternative?
Could there be another way? Some argue that community care could help combat loneliness while keeping elderly Maltese in their homes and communities. ‘We need to invest in community care services,’ says Dr. Grech. ‘This could include home visits, day centres, and volunteer programmes.’
Initiatives like ‘Volunteer Malta’ are already making strides. They match volunteers with elderly individuals, providing companionship and practical help. But more needs to be done, both by the government and the community.
As we navigate this issue, let’s remember the faces behind the statistics. Let’s remember the elderly Maltese, like Anna, who lives alone in a small apartment in Żabbar. ‘I miss having people around,’ she says. ‘I miss the company.’
Let’s ensure that our care for the elderly is not just about providing a roof over their heads, but about providing them with a sense of belonging, a sense of community.
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