Prevalence of geriatric psychiatric cases in Malaysia and their association with clinical mental health workforce availability

Ely  Salwana; Keevanraj  Ajit; Zulhaikal Irfan  Zaidi; Muhammad Iskandar Shah  Zahren; Ahsiah  Ismail; Zahidah  Zulkifli

doi:10.31436/ijohs.v6i2.342

Authors

Ely Salwana Institute of Visual Informatics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
Keevanraj Ajit Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
Zulhaikal Irfan Zaidi Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
Muhammad Iskandar Shah Zahren Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
Ahsiah Ismail Department of Computer Science, Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Zahidah Zulkifli Department of Information System, Kulliyyah of Information and Communication Technology, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31436/ijohs.v6i2.342

Keywords:

clinical staffing, elderly population, geriatric psychiatry, health, psychiatric

Abstract

The aging population presents a global challenge, with increasing attention on the mental health needs of elderly individuals. In Malaysia, the rising number of geriatric psychiatric cases emphasizes the urgent need for effective mental health care solutions. This study investigates the relationship between clinical staffing levels in psychiatric care and the management of geriatric psychiatric conditions. While previous research has established a link between staffing levels and care quality, this study provides specific insights into how workforce availability influences the management of elderly psychiatric patients in Malaysia. Given the growing prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and dementia among older adults, this research addresses a critical gap in understanding the effects of staffing on mental health outcomes. Using descriptive and regression analyses, the study assesses data on psychiatric cases and clinical staffing across Malaysian states. The analysis reveals that higher clinical staffing levels significantly improve the management of geriatric psychiatric conditions. This evidence highlights the critical role that adequate staffing plays in enhancing psychiatric care for the elderly. The study underscores the importance of strategic investments in mental health services, offering insights for policymakers and healthcare planners as they strive to meet the increasing demand for mental health care in Malaysia. By optimizing staffing and resource allocation, the research contributes to better mental health outcomes for Malaysia’s aging population, improving their quality of life.

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