STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Central Government Pensioners’ Welfare Association (CGPWA), Jammu, in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, celebrated the 35th International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) with an insightful health awareness event at the IIPA auditorium this evening.
The event featured two highly informative health talks-on “Common Gastrointestinal Concerns in the Elderly” by Dr. Vishav Dev Singh, Senior Consultant, and “Chronic Pain Management among Elders” by Dr. Parul Gohil, Consultant, Anesthesia & Pain Management, both from Narayana Hospital.
CGPWA President Kuldeep Khoda presided over the event, while Dr. Ashok Bhan, Member of the SMVDS Board, was the Chief Guest.
Dr. Vishav Dev Singh highlighted how ageing leads to physiological changes causing gastrointestinal issues such as dysphagia, dyspepsia, GERD, constipation, and decreased appetite. He warned that esophageal dysphagia can lead to serious consequences like dehydration and aspiration pneumonia. He urged the elderly to maintain good dental health, chew food thoroughly, eat slowly, and stay hydrated.
Stressing the importance of gut health, Dr. Singh recommended fiber-rich diets, probiotics, regular hydration, and physical activity as keys to healthy ageing.
He also explained age-related changes in the liver and advised caution with medications that can affect liver function. Constipation, affecting over 35% of elders, he noted, can result from reduced mobility, cognitive issues, and medical conditions such as diabetes and stroke. Lifestyle adjustments remain the most effective remedy.
Dr. Parul Gohil’s talk focused on chronic pain and its physical and psychological impact on the elderly, including mobility issues, depression, and sleep disturbances. She explained that any persistent pain lasting beyond three months needs medical attention. She discussed interventional treatments such as steroid injections, nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and plasma-rich platelet therapy, which can provide targeted relief without major surgery.
Dr. Ashok Bhan, in his address, praised the Narayana Hospital’s contribution since its inception in 2014, lauding its commitment to public welfare despite financial pressures. He noted that the newly established medical college, with 50 MCI-approved seats, is a significant achievement.
In his presidential address, Kuldeep Khoda thanked both doctors for their enlightening talks and praised Narayana Hospital for its consistent healthcare service. He encouraged the elderly to maintain a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and mental engagement.
General Secretary K.B. Jandial welcomed the attendees, while Vice President Dr. Sudarshan Kumar proposed the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the announcement of a Health Camp to be held on October 3 at Narayana Hospital’s Gandhi Nagar OPD.