Retirees in Oyo and Osun states have been advised to adopt healthy and active lifestyles to maintain physical and mental well-being, prevent premature aging, and avoid isolation.
The call was made on Thursday by the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, and a former Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service, Chief Adebisi Adesola, during an Elders’ Hangout organized by the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of Oyo and Osun States at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Audu Akeem, Mrs. Oni reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving retirees’ welfare. She commended them for their contributions to the civil service. She encouraged them to remain productive to enjoy a rewarding retirement.
Chief Adesola, who also chairs the Association, emphasised the importance of post-retirement engagement, urging retirees to explore hobbies, volunteer, and participate in community events to stay fit, mentally alert, and socially connected.
Similarly, the organising committee chairman, Chief Bayo Oyero, noted that active participation in community activities enhances retirees’ quality of life, sense of purpose, and overall fulfilment. He urged retirees to keep both body and mind active.
“I will urge us to keep ourselves and keep a tab on our health. Regular check-ups will prevent so many old-age sicknesses.
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“To prevent premature ageing and isolation, let us engage in meaningful activities and visit our doctor regularly,” Oyero said.
He described the event as a modest gesture of gratitude, acknowledging the role the retirees played in the civil service of Oyo State.
Earlier, Dr. Augustine Okesola delivered a lecture on “Understanding oral health: Beyond just teeth.”
He posited that good oral health is linked to overall well-being and can prevent systemic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, highlighting the mouth as a critical entry point for understanding and improving general health.
Dr. Okesola advised the retirees to maintain regular dental checkups, practice consistent daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, and manage dry mouth by staying hydrated and using saliva substitutes.
Additionally, he recommended a balanced diet, quitting tobacco to prevent gum disease and oral cancer, and addressing issues like worn or missing teeth with treatments such as crowns, implants, or dentures.
Highlights of the event were a facility tour of IITA and the presentation of Octogenarian awards to three members of the Association.