Foundation advises elderly people to prioritise healthy lifestyles

The Advocacy for Widows Empowerment Foundation (ADWEF), has advised older people to pay attention to their health by adopting healthy lifestyles and diets, to reduce risks of ailments associated with aging.

The President of the Foundation, Mr Willie Workman, gave the advice in an interview in Lagos.

He said that older people should take their health seriously by eating healthy food and go for regular medical checkups and screenings.

According to him, healthy lifestyle can help to support and promote healthy ageing by reducing the risk of chronic diseases and other health issues.

He explained that a healthy lifestyle was a way of living that focused on making healthy choices in all aspects of life.

“It is important to follow healthy lifestyle steps as we age; maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress levels, and staying socially connected can also help to promote healthy ageing.

“Eat a healthy diet and include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet. Get enough sleep; at least seven hours of quality sleep per night.

“Get regular check-ups and preventive screenings to detect any health issues early, make safety a priority, limit alcohol consumption, practice good hygiene and engage in regular physical activity,” he said.

According to him, by taking charge of their health status, older people can help in reducing risks/chances of developing some of the ailments associated with aging such cancer, hypertension, stroke, diabetes among others.

He said there was dramatic increase in hypertension prevalence among aged Nigerian adults.

Workman blamed the prevalence of hypertension condition in the country on imitation of western lifestyle, especially in diets.

According to him, studies show that the prevalence in adults aged 65 to 94 years is 73.8 per cent translating to three out of four older adults having high blood pressure.

“It’s been shown that there is dramatic increase in hypertension prevalence with age which is number one fact that everyone must know.

“When hypertension develops, it is a risk factor for stroke and sudden death,’’ he said.

He advised that junk and processed foods be reduced among elderly people; intake of salt, fats and oil in food should also be in moderation.

He emphasised that adequate intake of water was essential to maintain a healthy life when aging because on normal circumstance an individual was expected to take at least four litres of water per day.