Expert Tasks Senior Citizens On Healthy Living

A medical practitioner, Dr Olawale Akeem, has urged Nigerians to prioritise lifestyle adjustments as they advance in age, noting that many health challenges associated with ageing are preventable through informed daily choices.

Delivering the keynote speech at the 30th anniversary celebration of the 1995 graduating set of Ikeja Grammar School, Oshodi, he noted that ignoring components that aid a better lifestyle has massively contributed to Nigerians aging faster.

“Ageing is natural, but how we age is often influenced by local factors like our diet, our movement, our exposure to sunlight, and our general lifestyle. As many of us don’t realise that exercise is more powerful than most medications in slowing the ageing process,” he said.

Akeem outlined five critical components of healthy ageing as exercise, sunlight, movement, nutrition, and hydration. While emphasising that their neglect has led many to age faster than their years.

“Your circulation, digestion and even your mood are all enhanced by movement. Yet many of us go from our car to the house and back, day after day,” he added.

He further explained the health benefits of early morning sunlight, between 6:30 and 7am, calling it “natural vitality” that supports immune function and overall wellness.

He opined that modern food sources lack essential nutrients and encouraged dietary supplements, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which he said help maintain heart function and delay cardiovascular problems.

He appealed for a more inclusive approach to healthcare, which is an integrated health system combining conventional and natural therapies.

“We cannot continue to treat people without examining them thoroughly or empowering them with information. Prevention should be our first medicine,” he said.

The organising committee the event, Mrs Charity Eherededino said as part of the activities marking the occasion includes the handover of a block of fully renovated and equipped classrooms just as individuals need to partner with the government to promote sound and quality education.