By Dr Nik Fatinah N. Mohd Farid & Dr Azian Muhamad Adzmi

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare has ushered in transformative changes, particularly in the care of the elderly. With a rapidly aging global population, leveraging AI to gain insight by monitoring health data is no longer a futuristic concept -it’s an urgent necessity. Countries worldwide are adopting AI-driven solutions to enhance elderly care, offering valuable insights for Malaysia to elevate its healthcare system.

Global Examples of AI in Elderly Care

Globally, AI is playing a pivotal role in managing elderly health. In Japan, a nation grappling with one of the highest aging populations, AI-powered robots like PARO are used for companionship and emotional support among the elderly. Meanwhile, AI-enabled wearable devices continuously monitor vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels, alerting caregivers to anomalies in real time. Companies like Cyberdyne have developed robotic exoskeletons to aid elderly mobility, fostering independence and reducing strain on caregivers.

In the United States, AI is being deployed in smart home systems to monitor seniors living alone. Amazon’s Alexa Together service integrates AI to detect falls and alert emergency contacts, while AI cameras and sensors track daily activities, ensuring safety and promoting early intervention. The data gathered aids healthcare providers in creating personalised care plans, reducing hospital admissions.

European countries like the Netherlands are also exploring AI in dementia care. The project ‘Remind’ utilises AI to predict the progression of dementia by analysing speech patterns, memory tests and sensor data from daily activities. This proactive approach helps families and healthcare in providing better management care for the challenges of dementia.

AI in Elderly Healthcare in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the adoption of AI in elderly healthcare is still in its nascent stages. The country’s aging population is projected to double by 2040, presenting a critical need for innovative solutions. Current initiatives include telemedicine platforms like DoctorOnCall and AI-powered diagnostic tools in private hospitals. However, these solutions largely cater to the general population rather than being tailored to elderly-specific needs.

One promising initiative is the introduction of AI-powered wearables by Malaysian healthcare startups. These devices can track basic vital signs, though their adoption remains limited due to cost and a lack of awareness. Smart homes with AI integration are yet to gain significant traction in Malaysia, with most elderly care still relying heavily on family or traditional caregivers.

Comparatively, Malaysia’s healthcare system has robust infrastructure with affordable public healthcare, yet it lacks specialised geriatric facilities. The limited use of AI contrasts starkly with countries like Japan or the U.S., where AI is embedded in elderly care policies and daily living.

Barriers to AI Adoption in Malaysia

Several challenges impede the widespread adoption of AI in Malaysia’s elderly healthcare:

1. Cost: AI technologies, such as advanced wearables or smart home systems, can be prohibitively expensive for middle- and lower-income groups, which comprise a significant portion of Malaysia’s elderly population.
2. Digital Literacy: Many elderly Malaysians struggle with technology, creating a barrier to adopting AI-enabled devices.
3. Infrastructure Gaps: Rural areas often lack the internet connectivity and infrastructure required for AI technologies to function effectively.
4. Regulatory and Ethical Concerns: Malaysia has yet to establish comprehensive regulations governing AI in healthcare, raising concerns about data privacy and ethical usage.

Opportunities for Malaysia

Despite these challenges, Malaysia has significant opportunities to integrate AI into elderly care, drawing inspiration from global examples.

1. Affordable AI Solutions: Malaysia could collaborate with tech companies to develop affordable wearables, ensuring that health monitoring becomes accessible to the elderly across income brackets. Partnerships with startups like BioMind, which offers AI diagnostic solutions, could accelerate this process.
2. Government Initiatives: Introducing subsidies or grants for AI-based healthcare technologies can promote adoption. Additionally, incorporating AI training in community healthcare programmes could address digital literacy gaps.
3. Smart Community Initiatives: Pilot projects in urban centres, such as smart eldercare homes, could demonstrate the benefits of AI. These homes can integrate wearable devices, emergency alert systems and AI-powered health analytics.
4. Telemedicine Expansion: Expanding telemedicine services to include AI-driven geriatric consultations could bridge gaps in rural healthcare delivery. AI tools can assist in diagnosing chronic diseases, monitoring medication adherence and providing lifestyle recommendations.

Japan vs Malaysia

Japan’s proactive approach to AI adoption offers valuable lessons for Malaysia. Both countries face aging populations, but their responses differ significantly.

Japan’s government has actively funded AI in healthcare, recognising its role in mitigating workforce shortages. The widespread use of robotic companions, AI in dementia care, and wearable health devices illustrates Japan’s holistic strategy. Additionally, public-private partnerships have accelerated the integration of AI into eldercare.

In contrast, Malaysia has yet to fully embrace AI as a tool for elderly care. While public healthcare is affordable, it lacks specialised services for aging populations. Malaysia’s dependency on family caregivers and traditional methods indicates an urgent need for policy reform and technological innovation.

The Ethical and Human Touch

While AI can revolutionise elderly care, it is essential to maintain the human element. The elderly often crave companionship and empathy needs of which AI cannot entirely fulfil. Blending AI with human caregiving, as seen in Japan’s robot-assisted eldercare, ensures that technology complements rather than replaces human interaction.

Ethical concerns, such as data privacy and the potential misuse of AI, must also be addressed. Governments and healthcare providers need to establish stringent regulations to protect sensitive health data while promoting innovation.

A Path Forward for Malaysia

In conclusion, AI holds immense potential to transform elderly healthcare worldwide, and Malaysia has the opportunity to leapfrog into this future. By learning from global examples and tailoring solutions to local needs, Malaysia can ensure that its aging population receives quality care.

Investing in AI is not just about technological advancement - it’s about safeguarding the dignity and well-being of the elderly. By embracing AI-driven solutions, Malaysia can pave the way for a healthier, safer, and more inclusive future for its senior citizens.

-- BERNAMA

Dr Nik Fatinah N. Mohd Farid is Senior Lecturer at the School of Computing, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah.

Dr Azian Muhamad Adzmi is Assistant Professor at the Department of Media and Communication, KIMEP University, Almaty, Kazakhstan.