Over 300 Older Persons Benefit from Healthy Ageing Outreach in Gombe
The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), in collaboration with the Gombe State Stakeholders Consultative Forum on Ageing, successfully conducted the Senior Citizens’ Healthy Ageing Promotion and Walk for Life Activities.
The event, which targeted vulnerable and disabled older persons, saw over 300 participants benefit from medical services, health talks, nutrition education, and recreational activities.
Speaking at the Senior Citizens’ Healthy Ageing Promotion and Walk for Life Activities held at the Gombe State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kaltungo on Friday, Professor Umar, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Director General of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), Dr. Emem Omokaro, stated that older persons remain vital members of society whose health and well-being must be prioritized.
He noted that initiatives such as the Healthy Ageing outreach are designed to enhance the functional capacities of senior citizens by promoting regular health checks, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and facilitating social inclusion. Professor Umar stressed that healthy ageing is not only beneficial to individuals but also strengthens communities and reduces the burden on healthcare systems.
He further applauded the collaborative efforts between the NSCC and local stakeholders in organizing the outreach program and called for sustained actions across all levels of government and society to support older persons.
Speaking further, Co-Chair II, Elharoun Lamido Umar, highlighted the challenges facing older persons and reiterated NSCC’s commitment to improving their quality of life.
During the health session, Vice Co-Chair for Health Services, Abdussalam Yakubu, outlined prevalent health issues among older people and shared prevention and management strategies.
Simultaneously, a medical team comprising doctors, pharmacists, ophthalmologists, laboratory scientists, and health workers conducted free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and eye conditions, and dispensed medications to those in need.
The event also featured a “Walk for Life,” led by Physiotherapist Auwal Nuhu and Physical and Health Education Specialist Isa Usman, aimed at encouraging physical activity among older persons.