‘Ageism has never been so evident’ - Maltese Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics on COVID-19 situation

The Maltese Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics (MAGG) expressed its concern on the current situation regarding elderly people in Malta and Gozo. MAGG said that ageism has never been so evident as it is now.

This follows daily concerns raised to MAGG from older adults, family members and carers reflecting the current situation in the community and in residential homes. “The recent spike in deaths due to COVID-19 pandemic and the explosion of positive cases suggests that not enough is being done to protect the people who gave us the privilege of our present lives,” MAGG said.

The ‘Maltese Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics’ is a network of professionals in the field of gerontology and geriatrics and acts as a national platform with the principle of improving the quality of life of older persons.

“It is well known that older people are now afraid to access health services, for fear of contracting the virus or of being admitted to Mater Dei Hospital with similar outcome. The danger of older people living with health challenges and needing sporadic or regular medical care, but not getting it is real. It is well known that elderly loved ones are asking why they are not being given the importance they deserve. Are decisions being taken without consulting them? The person who has worked hard throughout his life, raised a family, contributed to the economy (still does), helped forge the nation we are today, is being thanked by being subject to measures that they fail to understand and endorse. Ageism has never been so evident.”

MAGG said that such people are asking… “Why am I being locked up in my own home when the rest of the people mingle and party? Why am I in danger living in a state-of-the-art expensive longterm care residence, when it should be the safest place in the world? Can I go home to my family and get state assistance for a while until this pandemic is over? Would

I lose my place in the long-term care facility if I do that? Why am I sacrificing hugging my children and grandchildren every day when I still see my fellow elders in similar situations succumbing to the virus anyway?”

“They are also asking… ‘Why is it that when one of my friends dies, it is not made clear on the media that the death was caused by COVID-19? Has a national plan been developed to protect me while I live with dignity? At least, may I die with dignity?’”

The position of the ‘Maltese Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics’ is that the elderly should be at the centre of national decisionmaking processes.

MAGG believes that the authorities need to consider whether their decisions are ageist in nature. “Ageism is subtle and pervasive, needing continuous effort to counteract it. Our public health service is edging towards a state of full capacity and struggles to prepare for winter. Older people should be given complete access to the same treatment as younger counterparts and health care decisions should be taken based on healthcare needs, not solely on their age. The country should increase its restrictive measures to safeguard the older person and the vulnerable.”

MAGG said that a national strategy that guarantees priority of the Influenza and COVID-19 vaccine to older people and other vulnerable groups, until there is enough for all, is needed.