A Practical Guide to Taking Care of Elderly Loved Ones in Malta

Essential elderly care tips for families in Malta, covering home care, hygiene, nutrition, and mobility support.

 

Caring for an elderly loved one is one of the most meaningful responsibilities a person can have. Whether it's assisting aging parents, relatives, or close friends, ensuring their comfort, dignity, and quality of life is essential. But where do you start?

From maintaining good hygiene and managing incontinence to creating a safe and engaging environment, elderly care comes with unique challenges. With the right approach and resources, families can help their loved ones age comfortably at home while receiving the support they need.

By 2050, a third of Malta’s residents will be over 65 years old. As the population ages, more families will take on caregiving roles, making it even more important to understand how to provide the best care.

Home Care: The Preferred Choice for Many Maltese Families

Most elderly people prefer aging in place rather than moving into care homes. The familiarity of home, connection to the local community, and a sense of independence make this an appealing choice.

Home care also comes with benefits such as:

  • Personalized care tailored to individual needs
  • Reduced risk of infections and hospital visits
  • A familiar, comfortable environment

That said, providing home care can be demanding. Accessing the right government services can help, including home support, financial aid, and medical assistance. Families in Malta can explore available elderly care services through the official government portal.

Essential Aspects of Elderly Care

Proper hygiene is vital for preventing infections and maintaining overall well-being. However, elderly skin conditions like dryness, irritation, and pressure sores require special care.

Protecting Elderly Skin

As people age, their skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Using MoliCare Skin products can help maintain moisture, prevent irritation, and support skin conditions. Look for hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested products to minimize reactions.

Incontinence and Personal Care

MoliCare Skin products for elderly skin care, preventing irritation and dryness.

Managing incontinence in the elderly requires absorbent products and proper skin care. MoliCare products including pull-ups and nappies provide odour control, leak protection, and skin-friendly materials.

However, prolonged exposure to moisture can irritate elderly skin. The MoliCare Skin range helps:

🔹 Clean: Cleansing Foam and Wash Lotion remove impurities gently.
🔹 Protect: Barrier Cream shields skin from moisture.
🔹 Care: Body Lotion hydrates and soothes.

Choosing the right fit for adult nappies ensures comfort and prevents leaks. Combining absorbent products with MoliCare Skin care helps maintain hygiene and protect delicate skin.

Managing Bladder Health and Preventing Accidents

Urinary issues like bladder instability and urgent pee can significantly impact an elderly person's quality of life.

How to Stop Urgent Pee and Manage Incontinence

1️ Encourage regular bathroom breaks—every 2 to 3 hours
2️ Use absorbent products like adult nappies for added security
3️ Maintain hydration, but limit caffeine and alcohol intake
4️ Strengthen bladder control with pelvic floor exercises

Nutrition & Meal Planning

Nutritious meal planning for elderly individuals, featuring soft foods, high-fiber meals, and protein-rich options for healthy aging.

Proper nutrition is critical for maintaining energy levels and preventing health complications. Key considerations include:

  • Soft foods for those with chewing difficulties
  • High-fiber meals to support digestion and prevent constipation
  • Protein-rich foods to preserve muscle strength

For families struggling with meal preparation, local community services and private caregivers can help ensure a balanced diet.

Ensuring Safety & Mobility at Home


Falls are one of the biggest risks for seniors. Simple home modifications can prevent accidents:

  • Installing grab bars in bathrooms and hallways
  • Using non-slip mats on slippery surfaces
  • Ensuring good lighting in high-traffic areas
  • Providing mobility aids like walkers or canes

Social Well-Being & Mental Health

Elderly social engagement ideas, including community activities, video calls, and hobbies to support mental well-being.

Loneliness can be as harmful as physical illness. Staying engaged helps maintain cognitive health and emotional well-being. Some ways to keep seniors socially active include:

  • Encouraging participation in community events
  • Regular visits or video calls with family and friends
  • Hobbies like puzzles, reading, or gardening
  • Short walks or light physical activity

For those unable to leave home frequently, arranging home visits from caregivers or social workers can make a difference.

Caring for the Carer: Looking After Yourself

Providing elderly care can be physically and emotionally demanding. Many carers experience burnout, which affects their own well-being. Seeking respite care or part-time professional assistance can help balance responsibilities.

Malta offers various elderly care services, from in-home nursing to community programs. Exploring these resources ensures you don’t have to manage everything alone.

Final Thoughts

Caring for elderly loved one is about compassion, patience, and planning. With the right support, you can ensure their comfort while also maintaining your own well-being.

As Malta’s aging population grows, families will play an even greater role in elderly care. Staying informed and utilizing available resources can make this journey smoother for both you and your loved one.

Sources & Further Reading
• United Nations Population Unit – Aging Population Statistics: MaltaToday
• Government Elderly Care Services in Malta: Servizz.gov.mt

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