We are delighted to congratulate Shaznida Binti Ghulam on successfully defending her Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) dissertation at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya. Her research, titled “Risk Factors for Falls and the Quality of Life Among Community Dwelling Older Adults in Klang Valley,” addresses a critical public health concern that has profound implications for ageing populations.

A Study on Falls and Quality of Life

Dr. Shaznida’s research investigates the incidence of falls and their impact on the quality of life among older adults living in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Using data from the Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) cohort study, her work provides valuable insights into the prevalence and risk factors of falls, highlighting the significant challenges faced by this vulnerable demographic.

Her findings revealed that the incidence of falls among older adults increased from 21.5% in 2015 to 44.5% in 2020. Factors such as Malay ethnicity, living alone, diabetes mellitus, and depression were identified as significant risk factors for falls. Furthermore, her study underscores the poorer quality of life experienced by fallers compared to non-fallers, with key contributors including depression, urinary incontinence, fear of falling, and smoking. These insights are pivotal for shaping fall prevention strategies and improving the quality of life for older adults in Malaysia.

Contribution to Public Health

Dr. Shaznida’s dissertation not only enhances our understanding of falls and their consequences but also offers evidence-based recommendations for developing targeted interventions. By addressing modifiable risk factors such as depression and diabetes mellitus, her work paves the way for comprehensive fall prevention measures that can significantly improve the well-being of Malaysia’s aging population.

Acknowledgments

We wish to acknowledge the invaluable guidance and mentorship provided by Dr. Hidzir Hanim’s supervisors, Professor Dr. Moy Foong Ming and Professor Dr. Tan Maw Pin, whose expertise and support were instrumental in the completion of her thesis.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Dr. Devinder Kaur Ajit Singh, the External Examiner from the Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia; and Associate Professor Dr. Nik Daliana Nik Farid, the Internal Examiner from the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Universiti Malaya.

We would also like to thank the Committee of Examiners for their thorough evaluation and insightful feedback, including Professor Dr. Azlina Amir Abbas, the Chairperson of the viva voce session; Professor Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman, the Deputy Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya and Professor Dr. Victor CW Hoe, Head of the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine.

Heartfelt Congratulations

We applaud Dr. Shaznida’s dedication and scholarly excellence in addressing such a significant issue. Her contributions will undoubtedly inspire future public health initiatives and serve as a cornerstone for improving the health and quality of life of older adults.

We wish Dr. Shaznida every success in her future endeavors and look forward to her continued contributions to the field of public health.