Home Diabetes Management Service Launched To Support Older Adults
The Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, has announced the launch of a new community-based initiative known as Home Diabetes Management, aimed specifically at supporting older adults living with Diabetes Mellitus in their own homes.
The service is designed to assist individuals who often face mobility challenges and may struggle to attend regular medical appointments.
During the announcement, it was highlighted that diabetes affects around 10% of the population in the Maltese islands, making it a significant public health concern.
Recent data also revealed gaps in care, with over 43% of older adults using insulin administration services failing to attend scheduled appointments, while approximately 20% lacked proper medical records.
This new initiative seeks to address these shortcomings by delivering personalised care directly to patients at home.
Malcolm Paul Agius Galea emphasised the importance of the service, stating that it would act as “a crucial safeguard” for vulnerable patients. He explained that tailored monitoring, education and support would help improve patients’ overall wellbeing while reducing the likelihood of more serious medical interventions in the future.
The Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Health and Active Ageing, Renzo De Gabriele, described the initiative as a key step towards more integrated and person centred care. He noted that diabetes continues to pose both physical and psychological challenges, particularly for older individuals who may not be following established care routines.
By addressing gaps in follow up and monitoring, especially for those with limited mobility, the service aims to improve outcomes and reduce strain on the national healthcare system.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Active Ageing and Community Care, Steve Agius, explained that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to create a coordinated ecosystem of services.
He stated, “The primary goal is to create a sustainable model of care that places the individual at the centre,” while also strengthening prevention and enhancing quality of life for both older adults and their families.
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