1.Active aging health determinants among working and retired Filipino older persons living in an urban academic campus.
Shelley Ann F. de la Vega ; Nimfa B. Ogena ; Maria Stella T. Giron ; Angely P. Garcia ; Hannah M. Pellejo ; Vicente O. Medina III
Acta Medica Philippina 2021;55(4):430-441
OBJECTIVES:
This study aims to describe the demographic profile and determine the proportion and Active Aging
health determinants of staff, faculty, and retired employees who are 55 years of age and older.
METHODS:
Mixed qualitative and quantitative methods, community-based, and participatory. Participants were
working and retired faculty and staff, age 55 years and over, living within an urban campus of a University. The
University Ethics Review Board approved the protocol. Focus group discussions (FGDs) led to the development
of a pretested survey instrument. Additional health data were obtained using a validated Comprehensive
Geriatric Assessment (CGA) tool. Trained and certified health professionals conducted the CGA. A Senior
Geriatrician adjudicated the final diagnoses. Progress reports and validation workshops were conducted with
study participants, content experts, and stakeholders. CSPRo, SPSS, and STATA were used to generate and analyze
disaggregated data.
RESULTS:
Two hundred thirty-one (n=231) agreed to participate. The matched dataset was used in data analysis,
representing a total of n=192 completed both surveys and CGA interview. Of the top 10 Geriatrician diagnoses, the
highest-ranking non-communicable disease was hypertension and the top sensory diagnosis was presbyopia. Three
of the self-assessed conditions were vision-related. They had better oral health than the recent national report.
Most were highly independent and functional. The majority rated their QOL as good. Most had access to health
insurance and a University Health Service.
CONCLUSION
Non-communicable diseases and visual
disorders were the most common medical problems
among working and retired university workers 55
years and older, living within the campus. To reduce
NCDs, maintain functional independence and achieve
a better quality of life especially among the retired,
programs for older persons are recommended.
These include access to medication, improved health
financing, and senior wellness programs during and
after employment. The results of the study will help
understand and create a Framework for Active Aging
that is relevant to this academic community.