With an ageing population, there is a growing need to address the health challenges and complications that often accompany later life.
With a focus on promoting a high quality of life at every stage of the ageing process, the Tobago House of Assembly’s Division of Health and Wellness hosted a ‘Healthy Ageing and Frailty Prevention Workshop’ on Wednesday, providing NGOs and caregivers with information and practical strategies to support older adults in maintaining their health, independence, and overall well-being.
Tobago health professionals state that more than 12.4% of the population on the island is over the age of 65, with more than two-thirds of that group living with one or more non-communicable diseases. These figures highlight the pressure on Tobago’s healthcare system.
Secretary of Health and Wellness Dr Faith Brebnor stated that the Tobago House of Assembly is now considering a multi-million-dollar investment to address the increase in heart complications among patients.
“One of the things because of the number of people who are showing up with heart attacks is saying that the TRHA is telling me that I may need to spend, and I don’t know where we will get the money from, about $30 million to get a cath lab on the island.”
According to Director of Wellness, Prevention and Health Promotion, Dr Alina Williams, health complications associated with ageing populations can also lead to frailty and a loss of independence.
“Ageing is hard. It brings about changes that we did not ask for, adjustments that we did not ask for to cater for, like perimenopause hitting early, and fears that we may not always say out loud.”
However, Dr Williams stated the Division of Health and Wellness wants to address these challenges by sharing practical information that will allow for a healthier, independent life.
“I want to remind you all that even if we cannot control every diagnosis, or every change in our circumstance, there is always something that we can do at every age, at every stage, and with every ability.”
Meanwhile, Dr Brebnor encouraged caregivers and NGOs to work with their patients in building strength, regardless of their physical ability.
“You need strength to stand, you need strength for balance, you need strength to protect your joints, you need strength to recover from illness or injury, and you need strength to remain independent.”
The Healthy Ageing and Frailty Prevention Workshop provided practical and proactive information on strength training and mobility, nutrition, access to specialised services, and more.