Tunisia's Ministry of Health has issued a set of recommendations for the elderly to prevent diseases and maintain their health and independence on the occasion of World Elderly Day, which falls on October 1st. The recommendations aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and early screening for a safe aging process. The ministry emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, reducing saturated fats, salt, and sugars, and avoiding overeating and eating outside of regular meal times.
The Ministry of Health also recommended regular physical activity suitable for different age stages, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol consumption and stress. Additionally, the ministry advised on the importance of regular screening for chronic diseases during the pre-aging stage and for those most at risk, as well as screening for osteoporosis and aging-related diseases to prevent loss of independence. These recommendations target the prevention of various diseases and disorders that may affect the elderly.
The Ministry of Health's recommendations also focus on the elderly who suffer from chronic diseases, emphasizing the importance of taking medication regularly, following medical advice, and regular self-monitoring. The ministry also stressed the need for elderly individuals to maintain regular medical and health care and prevent epidemics and diseases through health preservation procedures and vaccination against seasonal flu and others.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health highlighted the importance of promoting social integration for the elderly in their environment, helping them to overcome isolation and stress, and providing assistance to elderly patients and those who have lost independence in meeting their needs and monitoring their diseases. This is part of the ministry's efforts to promote a safe and healthy aging process.
The recommendations aim to prevent various diseases and disorders that may affect the elderly, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and functional or sensory impairments such as vision, hearing, and movement disorders. Additionally, the ministry aims to prevent psychological and neurological diseases, particularly dementia and Alzheimer's, which are associated with decreased cognitive and perceptual performance.
To mark World Elderly Day, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with various stakeholders, is organizing an awareness campaign in the media, a festive day on Habib Bourguiba Street on October 1st, and multiple medical days for residents in elderly care centers. The celebrations will also include regional and local awareness and screening campaigns for aging-related diseases.
The Ministry of Health's efforts to promote elderly care and awareness will also include training courses for health professionals in different regions on aging-related diseases. The ministry's initiatives aim to promote a culture of care and support for the elderly and to provide them with the necessary services to maintain their health and independence.
Key points
- The Ministry of Health issues recommendations for elderly care on World Elderly Day
- The recommendations focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle and early screening for a safe aging process
- The ministry organizes awareness campaigns and medical days to promote elderly care and awareness
