A geriatrician at Neuro Psychiatric Hospital, Aro Abeokuta, Dr. Adefolakemi Ogundele, has attributed poor diet and inadequate healthcare to rising cases of dementia risk among the elderly population in the country.
The expert however, emphasised the role of social activities, exercise, good sleep, and socialization in mitigating the challenges of memory loss and other disabilities associated with old age.
Dr. Ogundele stated this at a hangout held for aged people by a Non-Governmental Organization in Ogun State, the Coalition of Societies for the Protection of the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN), Ogun State chapter, at Siun, Obafemi Owode Local Government of Ogun State.
The NGO says it organised the special gathering to celebrate and support senior citizens in an effort to address the growing concerns over dementia risk among the elderly population due to poor diet and inadequate healthcare.
The event, took place at the Olu of Siun’s palace in Siun, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that more than 50 individuals aged 70 and above, residing in Siun and nearby communities, participated in the event, which aimed to check on their well-being and provide essential support.
Addressing the attendees, Reverend (Dr) Abiodun Solesi, the chairman of COSROPIN in Ogun State, emphasized the importance of routine medical check-ups and social interactions for the elderly.
Dr. Solesi urged the seniors to prioritize their health and avoid unhealthy dietary habits that could exacerbate age-related health issues, including dementia.
He also called for the implementation of policies to improve the socio-economic well-being of senior citizens across the state and the nation.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the event was not only an opportunity for medical check-ups and health education but also a platform for cultural exchange and entertainment.
Participants enjoyed cultural dances, drama presentations by local school pupils, and a lively dancing competition among the seniors.
The Olu of Siun, Oba Lawrence Odeyinka, expressed gratitude for the initiative and urged sustained efforts to support the elderly in the community.
Beneficiaries of the programme commended COSROPIN for its dedication to improving the lives of older persons and appealed to other individuals and organizations to join hands in supporting senior citizens.
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