In celebration of its 10th anniversary, AmLife International, a sleep health specialist, has launched a unique rehabilitation and regenerative centre driven by corporate social responsibility (CSR). This initiative is designed to significantly impact the lives of Malaysia's seniors, particularly those affected by modern degenerative diseases such as stroke.
Addressing the Aging Population: A Growing Concern in Malaysia
According to the United Nations, Malaysia is on track to become an aged nation by 2030, with 15% of its population comprising elderly individuals. As this demographic shift accelerates, the nation faces rising healthcare costs and an increased societal burden. Given this, there is an urgent need to address the health status of seniors, who are particularly vulnerable to age-related issues such as muscle loss, cardiovascular problems, and stroke.
Stroke: A Growing Threat in Malaysia
Globally, stroke affects 15 million people annually, and in Malaysia, it ranks as the third most common cause of death, with approximately 50,000 new cases each year. Research suggests that up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes, including quality sleep and proper healthcare interventions. The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019 found that individuals with insomnia have a 30% higher risk of developing cardiovascular issues, including stroke, underscoring the importance of sleep in preventing these diseases.
AmLife’s Commitment to Health: A Decade of Impact
Over the past decade, AmLife has dedicated itself to improving health through sleep education and healthcare solutions. According to the company's Founder and President, Mr. Lew Mun Yee, sleep disorders have been found to negatively impact cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of stroke. Understanding that stroke is a condition that affects not just individuals but also their families both physically and financially, AmLife has made a significant commitment to stroke rehabilitation.
Introducing AmHope: A Beacon of Hope for Stroke Patients
As part of its 10th-anniversary celebration, AmLife has invested RM1.4 million to establish AmHope, a rehabilitation and regenerative centre focused on helping seniors overcome the challenges of stroke and other physical health issues. AmHope represents a significant advancement in stroke rehabilitation, providing patients with access to high-quality, cost-effective care. The centre embodies a charity-inspired model, where those who can afford treatment help finance care for those who cannot.
The 90-Day Golden Window: A Critical Period for Stroke Recovery
According to Associate Professor Dr. Khoo Ching Soong from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, the first 90 days following a stroke are critical for brain recovery. Intensive rehabilitation during this period significantly increases the chances of full recovery. However, many stroke patients miss this crucial window due to financial constraints, resulting in lasting physical impairments. To address this issue, AmHope offers substantial financial aid, including physiotherapy sessions for RM30—an 80% reduction from the normal market rate of RM150.
Innovative Therapies to Prevent Recurrent Stroke
AmHope also introduces pioneering technologies to reduce the risk of recurrent strokes, which commonly occur within three to five years after the first incident. One such innovation is High Potential Hydrogen Therapy (HPHT), designed to lessen or prevent the chance of a second stroke. Additionally, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at AmHope accelerates healing for various conditions, including chronic wounds and brain injuries. The centre also offers Electric Potential Therapy, a Japanese patented technology that recharges the body’s regenerative and cardiovascular abilities during sleep—a boon for immobile stroke patients.
Overcoming Transportation Barriers: Shuttle Services and Mobile Rehab Units
Recognizing the challenges stroke patients face in accessing rehabilitation services, AmHope has introduced a shuttle service at RM1/km to help those with transportation issues. In the near future, the centre plans to roll out a mobile truck equipped with rehab equipment to serve local communities, bringing critical rehabilitation services directly to those in need.
The Road to Recovery: A Personalized Approach
Stroke recovery is a unique journey for each patient, with the first 90 days being the most crucial. During this period, patients need intensive rehabilitation to improve motor, speech, and cognitive functions. In addition to traditional therapies, alternative methods such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offer new hope for improving functional independence.
AmHope: Pioneering Stroke Rehabilitation in Malaysia
AmHope’s commitment to improving stroke recovery and prevention sets a new standard in Malaysia’s healthcare landscape. By providing accessible, high-quality care and pioneering new technologies, AmHope offers hope to stroke patients and their families, ensuring that stroke does not have to be the beginning of the end.
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