The Context of Aged Care in Malaysia 23. The context of aged care in Malaysia is influenced by demographic changes, epidemiological changes and the changing market. (i) Demographic changes Population ageing is most progressive in the Southeast Asian region and Malaysia has the second highest percent increase in elderly population between 2000 to 2030 (i.e. 277%) after Singapore. Our median age shows that the population is maturing and various projections using different indicators show that Malaysia will reach aged nation status in the next two or three decades. There is increasing life expectancy among the Malaysia, on average, those who are currently in their 60’s may live for another 20 years. Feminization of ageing, older females tend to outlive their male counterparts but are more likely to be reliant on family for financial support and care in old age. Due to low fertility, the family base that support the older generation is shrinking. Traditionally family support is diminishing despite continuing practice of intergenerational support (i.e. filial piety, religious beliefs). Changes from population ageing will be compressed into 20-30 years in Southeast Asia instead of 50-100 years as experienced in the west. (ii) Epidemiological changes The disabilities levels among older Malaysians are higher than older Australians which had resulted in the increase of demands for care. Several factors may contribute to this high disabilities as follow:a. The accumulation of functional deficits from high prevalence of chronic, non-communicable diseases and age-related conditions. Lack of elderly-friendly infrastructure which refers to physical environment that enables older persons to continue to function despite disabilities; and lack of products and services for older persons with diminished capacity to live independently. REPORT ON CARE SERVICES FOR OLDER PERSONS AND SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS 61