LRGS TUA
Neuroprotective Model for Healthy Longevity among Malaysian Older Adults (2014–2019)
Principal Investigator: Prof. Dr Suzana Shahar, Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM
The LRGS TUA project was a longitudinal research initiative that examined the progression of cognitive decline and identified factors associated with healthy ageing among Malaysian older adults. The study employed a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment encompassing physical health, sensory function (including hearing and vision), dietary patterns, nutritional status, and psychosocial wellbeing.
At baseline, participants underwent detailed interviews covering sociodemographic background, health conditions, neuropsychological assessments, psychosocial factors, and dietary intake. Physical evaluations, including anthropometric measurements and assessments of physical function and fitness were also conducted. Biological samples such as blood, buccal swabs, hair, and toenails were collected and stored for further analysis. A subgroup of participants underwent additional sensory testing to assess visual and auditory function. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 18 and 36 months to monitor changes in health, cognition, functional status, as well as morbidity and mortality outcomes.
The MELoR Project
Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) (2013–2016)
Led by Professor Dr Tan Maw Pin, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya
The Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research (MELoR) study was a major research initiative examining the health, wellbeing, and living conditions of older adults in Malaysia. The project later evolved into the Transforming Cognitive Frailty to Later Life Self-Sufficiency (AGELESS) programme, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education under the Long-Term Research Grant Scheme (LRGS).
The study aimed to generate comprehensive evidence on the needs and challenges faced by Malaysia’s ageing population. Data were collected through structured interviews and health assessments that explored multiple aspects of later life, including physical and cognitive health, quality of life, housing, social needs, and economic and financial circumstances. By providing a holistic understanding of ageing in Malaysia, the MELoR study offered valuable insights for the development of policies, programmes, and services that support healthy and independent ageing.
My-AGELESS Trial
Multi-domain Intervention for Reversal of Cognitive Frailty (2019–2024)
Led by Prof. Dr Suzana Shahar, Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM
The My-AGELESS Trial was a two-year clinical intervention study led by the Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and funded by the Ministry of Higher Education under the Long-Term Research Grant Scheme (LRGS). The trial adapted elements from the Finnish FINGER study to evaluate their effectiveness in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic population.
Approximately 1,000 older adults at increased risk of cognitive decline and physical frailty were screened from urban, semi-urban, and rural communities across Malaysia. From this pool, 300 participants identified with cognitive frailty were recruited in stages between December 2019 and November 2024 to participate in the intervention programme. The study aimed to determine whether lifestyle-based strategies targeting multiple risk factors simultaneously could reverse mild cognitive impairment and physical frailty.
The project involved collaboration among leading Malaysian universities, including Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). In addition to the main intervention, several sub-studies explored areas such as the gut microbiome and its relationship with cognitive health. Findings from the trial contributed to the development of personalised rehabilitation approaches and a telerehabilitation module to support community-based interventions, particularly in rural areas. The study also evaluated the programme’s economic and social impact to inform future policy and healthcare strategies.
AGEWELL Study
The Sunway Ageing and Well-Being Study (Commenced in 2019)
The Sunway Ageing and Well-Being (AGEWELL) study is a longitudinal research project investigating factors that contribute to positive ageing outcomes among older adults. It focuses on identifying combinations of life conditions that promote healthy ageing across multiple domains, including neurological health, psychological wellbeing, biological functioning, and economic factors.
The research involves older adults living in the Greater Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area and examines how lifestyle and environmental factors influence ageing trajectories. The AGEWELL study is a collaborative initiative involving Sunway University, Monash University, and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and is supported by the Ministry of Higher Education under the Long-Term Research Grant Scheme (LRGS). The findings provide important insights into strategies that support healthy and successful ageing within the Malaysian context.