Srinagar, Dec 10: In a collaborative initiative to support senior citizens in the region, GK Labs+, Moul Mouj Foundation (MMF) and Health Foundation (HF) jointly organized a free medical camp for elderly patients at the HF office in Pattan.
The camp provided a range of essential healthcare services to seniors, including free geriatric consultations, necessary blood tests and prescribed medications.
The primary goal of the camp was not just to treat the elderly but to raise awareness about maintaining health during the winter months, a period that often presents unique challenges for seniors.
Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant shared valuable advice with the seniors on how to protect their health during the winter months. He emphasized the importance of dressing warmly, particularly covering extremities such as hands, feet and head, to prevent cold-related illnesses. Seniors were advised to avoid sudden temperature changes and to stay indoors during extreme weather conditions.
He also highlighted the need for a balanced diet, rich in vitamins, to strengthen immunity, while cautioning against excessive consumption of heavy or fried foods. He stressed the importance of regular exercise, even if it’s light, to maintain mobility and circulation. Additionally, seniors were encouraged to keep their homes well-heated, but avoid direct exposure to space heaters or open flames.
Dr. Saleem also highlighted the critical role of medication adherence, particularly for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. He urged the elderly to follow their prescribed regimens meticulously to manage their health effectively.
The seniors who attended the camp expressed immense satisfaction with the services provided. “We were glad to see that one specialist could address all our medical concerns. Our medicines were optimized and we received holistic treatment,” said one attendee, reflecting the positive feedback from many others. The elderly participants also expressed a strong desire for such camps to be held more frequently, acknowledging the vital role these initiatives play in improving their health and awareness.
This free medical camp serves as an example of how collaborative efforts between healthcare organizations can make a meaningful difference in the lives of senior citizens, especially the marginalised seniors in rural areas.
