On Friday, 18th October 2024, the Older Persons Standards Authority was officially launched during a business breakfast themed “Regulating to ensure the well-being and rights of older persons” which brought together various stakeholders from the field of active ageing.
Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing Hon. Malcolm Paul Agius Galea presented the Authority which serves as the regulatory body for geriatric services offered within Residential Homes, Day Care Centers and other geriatric services.
During this activity, three older persons, Ms. Vella, Mr. Baldacchino and Mr. Mizzi, residing at different Residential Homes, participated in a Panel Discussion – “The Voice of the Older Persons.” They gave a brief insight of their daily experiences as residents within the Care Homes and explained how they are still making every effort to remain active and enjoy life as much as possible.
Profs. Richard Fleming, an international expert in the field of dementia, was invited to address this event. He focused his contribution on the fact that the quality of the building environment where the older persons reside has a major effect on the quality of life enjoyed by people with dementia.
OPSA’s CEO, Mr. George Fenech, remarked that the Authority will be the means to ensure that the older persons receive the care and support they need in the Residential Homes and in the community by having a clear regulatory framework and through regular inspections to be able to identify early signs of abuse or neglect and take immediate remedial action.
OPSA will be responsible for establishing, monitoring and enforcing higher quality standards in all public and private geriatric related services in Malta and Gozo.
