Record and Writing

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Assisted retirement living could cost approximately 60,000 a year in 2024.

In Asian culture, the idea of placing an elderly loved one in a nursing home may not be well-received. However, caring for an aging individual is a full-time commitment, and not everyone can stay at home and provide full-time care.

This is where the concept of assisted living comes into play, ensuring that the elderly person is comfortably cared for.

The average monthly cost for a semi-private room with basic care services is RM2000. A private room with professional and specialized healthcare provided by trained nurses and in-house doctors can cost up to RM8000 a month. Additional services like diapers may incur separate charges.

Monthly Costs:

Shared Room:

Walking, assistance with ADLs: RM2500 - RM 3500

Bed-ridden: RM2300 - RM 3300

Single Room:

Shared bathroom: RM3000 - RM 4000

Attached bathroom: RM3500 - RM 4500

Couple: RM4000 - RM 5000

Glove+Pad+Diapers: RM400

Lifestyle enrichment: RM200 -RM500

The prices cover 24-hour care, assistance and nursing, health check-ups, 5 meals a day, Astro TV, and laundry. All rooms are fully air-conditioned. Reflexology/massage or physiotherapy usually charges separately. Medical-related fees are charged separately and prices vary according to care and treatment.

On average, here’s how much you’ll spend in a year in a nursing home:

Multiple-sharing room: RM3000 x 12 = RM36000

Diapers: RM400 x 12 = RM4800

Medical check-up at a private hospital: RM1500

Medication & supplements: RM200 x 12 months = RM2400

Annual premium for medical insurance: RM6000

Lifestyle enrichment: RM500x12 months = RM6000

Total: RM56700

Please note that these costs are estimates and the actual costs may vary.

Do comment and help find out the extra cost which I might missed out.

How Much Does It Cost to Retire in Malaysia in 2024? 40k? 50k?

Suppose you’re aging gracefully with no significant health issues, but you might need some help with household chores, which would require hiring a maid. You’ve settled your mortgage and car loan and have no outstanding debts, and you wish to lead a simple lifestyle.

Here’s an estimate of your average yearly expenses in today’s value:

English-speaking maid: RM1,600 X 12 months = RM19200
Private hospital medical check-up: RM1500
Medication & supplements: RM200 x 12 months = RM2400
Annual medical insurance premium: RM6000
Groceries: RM900 x 12 months = RM10800
Transport (fuel & toll): RM250 x 12 months = RM3000
Annual 3-day vacation within Malaysia: RM1200
Utilities (water, electricity, etc.): RM200 x 12 months = RM2400
Total: RM46500

However, this is a very cautious estimate and overlooks many of the complications associated with aging.

It simply presumes that the elderly individual can live semi-independently with minimal assistance. But that’s not always the case.

As we get older, our mental and physical health declines, and there may come a time when living alone is no longer feasible. That’s when assisted living becomes necessary.

Sunday, January 28, 2024

Embracing the Journey: Raising an Autistic Child in Malaysia

Raising a child is a journey of love, joy, and learning. When the child is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the journey takes on a unique path filled with both challenges and triumphs. In Malaysia, one of the most significant concerns for families is often the financial aspect. However, amidst the challenges, there is hope, support, and a community ready to lend a helping hand.

Understanding the Journey

Every child’s needs are unique, and so are the costs associated with their care. From therapy sessions and special education to medical care and assistive technology, the expenses can add up. But remember, this journey is not just about numbers. It’s about ensuring your child receives the love, care, and opportunities they deserve.

Reaching Out for Support

You are not alone on this journey. Malaysia is home to numerous resources and support systems ready to assist you. Government assistance programs, non-profit organizations, and community support groups offer invaluable help. These resources can lighten the financial burden and provide emotional support, guidance, and a sense of community.

Numerous resources and support systems are available in Malaysia to lighten the financial burden and provide invaluable assistance:

Government Assistance: Programs like NASOM's Financial Assistance and the Social Security Organization's disability benefits offer crucial financial aid.
Non-profit Organizations: Yayasan Bank Rakyat (YBR) provides subsidized therapy sessions, and workshops, worth RM3500, and a long list of support groups is in this blog.
Community and Religious Support: NASOM Family Support Groups, Facebook communities, and regional support groups offer peer support and resource sharing. Additionally, Christian organizations like MEF and Agape Society provide education, training, and social services for families with autistic children.

Beyond the Numbers

While managing the financial aspects is crucial, the journey of raising an autistic child extends far beyond numbers. It’s about weaving a network of support, both online and offline. It’s about connecting with experienced parents, autism advocates, and professionals who can offer guidance, share their experiences, and provide emotional support.

Pinpointing an exact cost is challenging, as every child's needs and the chosen support options differ. However, here's a glimpse into the potential expenses:

Therapy: ABA therapy, a crucial intervention for many children, can range from RM100 to RM300 per session, with several sessions recommended weekly. Speech and occupational therapy costs fall within a similar range.
Education: While public schools are free, for some children, specialized autism schools come into play, costing anywhere from RM10,000 to RM30,000 per year or more.
Medical care: Medication and consultations with specialized doctors can add up, with medication alone potentially costing hundreds of Ringgit annually.
Assistive technology: Communication aids and sensory tools can significantly improve a child's life, but prices can range from RM500 to several thousand Ringgit.

Embracing the Journey

Raising an autistic child in Malaysia can be overwhelming, but with careful planning, utilizing available resources, and embracing a supportive network, you can navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs. This journey, though filled with obstacles, can also be incredibly enriching, bringing immense joy and a sense of purpose.

Remember, every child with ASD, regardless of financial constraints, deserves to thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment. Let us walk this path together, hand in hand, heart to heart. Because at the end of the day, this journey is about love, understanding, and acceptance. And together, we can make a difference.

Boost Wallet: A Comprehensive Look at Its Pros and Cons

In the realm of digital payments, e-wallets have become a go-to solution for many. In Malaysia, Boost is one such e-wallet that has gained traction, boasting over 7.5 million users and a wide network of merchant acceptance. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into a detailed review:

The Upsides of Boost

Seamless Transactions

Boost offers a cashless and hassle-free experience for everyday transactions. Whether it’s making payments, topping up, paying bills, or using features like gifting and QR code scanning, Boost makes it all a breeze.

Rewards Galore

With Boost, every transaction can be rewarding. Users can earn cashback, avail of exclusive deals, and participate in missions to earn additional rewards.

Extensive Acceptance

Boost is accepted at over 170,000 merchant touchpoints across Malaysia, making it a versatile choice for a variety of purchases.

Intuitive Interface

The app is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and understand, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

Integration with Other Platforms

Boost allows users to link their accounts to online shopping platforms and other apps, adding to the convenience.

The Downsides of Boost

Limited Financial Features

When compared to some of its competitors, Boost falls short in offering features like savings accounts, investments, or cryptocurrency options.

Inconsistent App Performance

Some users have reported occasional glitches, bugs, and slow processing times, particularly during peak hours.

Confusing Cashback Rates and Exclusions

The terms and conditions of cashback offers and promotions can be confusing, with different rates and hidden exclusions, which may lower the perceived value.

Customer Service Woes

Some users have reported difficulties in reaching customer service or experiencing slow response times when seeking assistance.

Data Privacy Concerns

Sharing financial and usage data through the app raises concerns for some users, despite assurances of data security.

The Verdict

Boost offers a convenient and rewarding experience for everyday transactions in Malaysia. However, it does have its limitations in terms of financial features, app performance, and potential data privacy concerns.

Before choosing Boost, consider your priorities and usage needs. Explore other e-wallet apps to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Look at the app store and online reviews to gain real-world insights into Boost’s user experience. Understand the terms and conditions of promotions and missions to maximize cashback and reward potential. Lastly, prioritize data security and be mindful of the data you share through the app.

In conclusion, Boost can be a valuable tool for cashless transactions and occasional rewards in Malaysia. However, being aware of its limitations and exploring alternative options is crucial for making the right choice for your digital wallet needs.

Here are the references for the Boost e-wallet app review:

The Challenges of Autism Diagnosis in Traditional Healthcare Settings: A Guide for Parents

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, interests, and behavior. In Malaysia, the journey towards an autism diagnosis can be a challenging one, especially for families with young children.

The Risks of Traditional Healthcare Settings

Bringing children to clinics or hospitals for autism risk checkups can expose them to potential pathogens and sick individuals, especially in crowded waiting rooms. This can be a concern for children with weak immune systems or sensitivities. The child on the spectrum may be distressed not only during the visit but for days (or even weeks) before. Challenging behaviors during the visit (due to anxiety, not intentional) can prevent healthcare providers from conducting a thorough evaluation and may make it difficult for parents to ask questions or to express their concerns.

The Impact on Families

The time and effort required for this process can be particularly challenging for families with working parents. Balancing work commitments with the need to attend multiple appointments can be difficult. For young children, the unfamiliar environments and routines associated with these visits can also be stressful.

Embracing Alternative Methods

In addition to traditional diagnostic methods, there are alternative tools available that can help with early autism detection. One such tool is the Autism Virtual Early Screening Tool (AVEST) by Angsana Health. AVEST is a video-enabled screening tool designed to help parents assess the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder in their children. It offers the option of undergoing the screening from the comfort and safety of your own home. This can be particularly beneficial for busy families, reducing the need for multiple clinic visits and long waiting times.

Conclusion

While the journey towards an autism diagnosis can be challenging, remember that you are not alone. There are resources and support available to help you navigate this process. With planning, support, self-care, and the use of innovative tools like AVEST, it’s possible to manage the demands of this journey while also taking care of your family’s needs.

Here are some of the references:

“The Rising Prevalence of Autism in Malaysia”.
“The Cost of Autism Diagnosis and Treatment in Malaysia”.
“Insurance Coverage for Autism in Malaysia”.
“Government and Non-Government Support for Autism in Malaysia”.
“Parental Stress and Coping Attitudes in Autism Spectrum Disorder Children: A Survey during Movement Control Order period amid COVID-19 Pandemic”.
“Parenting Stress among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Need of Stress Management Guidelines and Policy”.
“Parent’s Experience on Employment Issues Faced by Young Adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Malaysia: A Preliminary Study” (No reference found).
“Autism Spectrum Disorder 101: Symptoms, Tests & More”.
“Parenting stress among malaysian parents of children with autism spectrum disorder.”.
“Autism Virtual Early Screening Tool (AVEST) - Angsana Health”.

Navigating the Autism Diagnosis Journey in Malaysia: A Guide for Busy Families

The Challenge of Diagnosis

The process of getting an autism diagnosis involves traveling to clinics or hospitals, waiting for appointments, and managing multiple visits. This can be stressful and time-consuming. It’s not uncommon for families to wait weeks or even months for a diagnostic evaluation after a parent, doctor, or teacher notices behaviors that indicate a child may have ASD.

The Impact on Families

Strategies for Managing the Process

Despite these challenges, some strategies can help families manage the process of getting an autism diagnosis:

Plan Ahead: Try to schedule appointments at times that are least disruptive to your work and family routines. If possible, consider taking time off work for key appointments.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups for help. They can provide practical assistance, such as accompanying you to appointments, as well as emotional support.
Stay Organized: Keep a record of all appointments, assessments, and reports. This will not only help you stay on top of the process but will also be useful for future reference.
Take Care of Yourself: Remember, it’s important to look after your own wellbeing too. Try to make time for rest and relaxation, and consider seeking support for yourself if you’re finding the process particularly stressful.

Embracing Alternative Methods

Conclusion

Here are some of the references:

Navigating Autism Diagnosis and Insurance Coverage in Malaysia

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, interests, and behavior. In Malaysia, the cost of consultations, evaluations, and diagnostic testing for ASD can total thousands of Ringgit, depending on the specialist and tests needed ¹. This can pose a significant financial burden on families. However, several insurance companies in Malaysia are acknowledging the need for support and offering autism benefits within their plans.

The Cost of Autism Diagnosis in Malaysia

The average cost of an autism screening and full evaluation ranges from around $1,000 - $2,000 ². However, medical treatments in Malaysia are known for their affordability. Flight, accommodation, treatment, and a trip round the city usually cost less than the medical treatment price in the US or Europe ³.

Insurance Coverage for Autism in Malaysia

Several insurance companies in Malaysia offer coverage for autism. Here are a few examples:

Conclusion

While the cost of diagnosing and supporting a child with ASD can be daunting, insurance coverage can provide some relief. It’s important to carefully review the details of your existing or potential insurance plan to understand the specifics of autism coverage, including limits, exclusions, and pre-requisites. Don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider for clarification or guidance on claiming for autism diagnosis and treatment. Remember, every family’s situation is unique, and seeking professional guidance and exploring all available resources is crucial.