A Professor of Social Gerontology Gender and Development Studies, at the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University, Olanrewaju Ajiboye has advocated for National Policies on Ageing and massive investment in public infrastructure to promote healthy living for elderly in Nigeria
The don who was delivering the university's 121st Inaugural Lecture titled,"That we may age Gracefully: A Social Gerontologist's X-Ray of Later Life", said enactment and enforcement of such policies by the Federal Government, would guarantee the rights, dignity, and active participation of older persons in the country
Investment in public Infrastructure according to him, will provide accessible, safe, and affordable housing and public recreational facilities for older adults.
The Social Gerontologist recommended subsidized Healthcare and Geriatric Care, so as to make medical services, including specialized geriatric care, affordable and reduce long wait times for older persons
He recommended that government should strengthen social security and pensions, by ensuring financial security through robust, accessible pension schemes to alleviate poverty among public servants after retirement from service
The Professor of Social Gerontology Gender and Development Studies also stressed the need for community to create opportunities for youth to engage with older persons through mentoring, digital literacy training, and storytelling. in addition to organizing local volunteers to check on home bound elders, run errands, or provide companionship.
He equally encouraged individual elderly people to engage in regular, gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or water aerobics to maintain mobility, strength, and balance.
Professor Ajiboye urged them to always
consume balanced, nutrient-dense foods (fruits, vegetables, lean protein) and stay hydrated to support body function.
"Keep the mind active through reading, learning new skills, or engaging in hobbies to reduce the risk of cognitive decline", he stated
"Don’t be too introverted. Share your burdens with those, who love and care about you. This is not to say that you should be a worry wart, but by revealing your innermost thoughts and feelings, you can positively affect your mental state", he urged
The Inaugural Lecturer asked family members to always spend quality time with older loved ones, listen to their stories, and involve them in family activities to prevent depression.
He recommended that family members should assist the elderly ones by organizing medications, managing appointments, and using technology like telehealth or pill dispensers for them
"By implementing these, society can ensure that aging is a phase of life marked by dignity, respect, and continued contribution", he submitted
Vice-Chancellor of the university Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello who chaired the Inaugural lecture, lauded the scholarly contributions of Prof. Ajiboye to healthy living of the elderly people and welcome him to the LASU Body of Professors
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