JAMMU: The Central Government Pensioners’ Welfare Association (CGPWA), Jammu, in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Superspeciality Narayana Hospital, celebrated the 35th International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) with two highly informative health talks at the IIPA Auditorium this evening.
The programme was presided over by Kuldeep Khoda, President CGPWA, while Dr. Ashok Bhan, Member, SMVDS Board, was the Chief Guest.
Two expert talks were delivered:
- Dr. Vishav Dev Singh, Senior Consultant, spoke on “Common Gastrointestinal Concerns” among the elderly, highlighting issues like dysphagia, dyspepsia, GERD, constipation, malnutrition, and liver function decline with age. He stressed lifestyle modifications, gut health management, and timely medical consultation as essential for healthy aging.
- Dr. Parul Gohil, Consultant, Anesthesia & Pain Physician, spoke on “Chronic Pain Management in Elders”. She emphasized the multidisciplinary approach to pain relief, combining medications, interventional treatments such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, PRP therapy, and psychological support.
The talks were followed by an interactive question-answer session with participants.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ashok Bhan lauded the role of SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital since its inauguration by the Prime Minister in 2014. He highlighted its philanthropic approach, commitment to Ayushman Bharat and CGHS/ECHS patients, and establishment of a medical college with MCI-approved seats. He urged senior citizens to remain active, consult doctors promptly, and overcome isolation by engaging socially.
In his presidential address, Kuldeep Khoda praised the doctors for their educative lectures and thanked SMVD Narayana Hospital for extending quality healthcare in Jammu. He advised the elderly to adopt a balanced lifestyle, physical fitness, positive mindset, and dietary discipline, remarking: “Kam khao, ghum mat khao.”
Earlier, K.B. Jandial, General Secretary, CGPWA, welcomed the dignitaries and explained the objective of celebrating IDOP, while Dr. Sudarshan Kumar, Vice President CGPWA, presented the vote of thanks. The event was conducted by Nisar Ahmad.
On the occasion, both guest speakers were felicitated with planters. It was also announced that SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital will organize a Health Camp at its Gandhinagar OPD on October 3 at 10 a.m. as part of IDOP celebrations.
