BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — With the senior population rapidly growing in the Philippines, a geriatrician is urging a shift in viewing aging.
During the “recent Aging and Health Talks” forum spearheaded by the City Health Services Office, Dr. April Cabfit from the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center shared insights on healthy aging.
“Before my training in Geriatric Medicine, I often associated aging with decline, weakness, or sickness. But today, I hope to change that mindset. Aging is not just about growing old; it’s an opportunity to live a meaningful and healthy life,” Cabfit said.
She highlighted the rapid increase in the senior population in the Philippines, with nine million Filipinos aged 60 and above in 2020. She said this increase is attributed to scientific interventions and medical advancements like vaccines and improved treatments.
“While we cannot stop aging, we have control over how we age. It depends on how we care for our bodies and minds,” the geriatrician noted.
“So mas humahaba ang buhay ng tao at mas marami na ang umaabot sa katandaan. So kahit na hindi natin mapigilan ang pagtanda, nasa atin ang control kung paano tayo tatanda, at depende ito kung paano natin inaalagaan iyong ating katawan at ang ating isipan,” she explained.
Cabfit defined healthy aging based on the Rowe & Kahn model and WHO definition, emphasizing three key components: Physical Health (Avoiding illness and disability, and managing existing conditions effectively), Cognitive Health (Maintaining an active mind, continuous learning, a functional memory and an engaged brain.), and Social Engagement (Staying connected with family, friends, and the community.)
She pointed out that genetics account for only 30 percent of aging while lifestyle and environment contribute to the remaining 70%.
“Adopting a healthy lifestyle including proper nutrition, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and avoiding vices, can add up to 10 years to your life. Your habits today are your health tomorrow,’ she said.
Cabfit also discussed the pillars of healthy aging which include nutrition, physical activity, avoiding toxic substances, restorative sleep, proactive stress management, and nurturing relationships.
She emphasized the importance of nutrition for protecting the brain, maintaining muscle mass, and guarding heart health. Citing the “MIND Diet Study” (2015), she noted that seniors who followed the MIND diet had a 53% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Exercise is the most effective way to maintain strength and independence. The recommendation is 150-300 minutes of moderate activity per week, spread over at least three days, she said.
Other pillars of healthy aging, she said, include Restorative Sleep which is Essential for reducing disability and supporting mental health; Stress Management, which builds resilience through positive outlook, physical activity, and social connections; Social connections or staying connected with family, friends, and community, which can lead to a longer and healthier life, and Avoiding toxic substances like vaping, smoking and alcohol is crucial.
Cabfit also discussed the importance of immunization and awareness of geriatric syndromes, as she urged older adults to consult with doctors or geriatricians for proper assessment and guidance.
A geriatrician can help identify early signs to prevent complications and create a plan suited for older adult needs, she concluded. **JDP/MAWC-PIA-CAR
