The Faculty of Health Sciences in Tunisia UPSAT member of the honoris network, welcomed health specialists in order to explain the concepts of gerontology and geriatrics. It was also an opportunity to present to the students of the final classes the consequences of aging and the different aspects of this thematic in order to allow future graduates a better understanding of the nutritional aspects and to lead them to reflect on the appropriate approaches to care. medical care for the elderly and approaches to preventing visual and locomotor disorders in the elderly.
The epidemiological approach, health problems and national programs dedicated to the elderly were discussed by Doctor Catherine DZIRI, Professor of Physical Medicine and Functional Rehabilitation.
Pr Catherine DZIRI, also underlined the importance of adapted physical activity, both as a complement to physiotherapy and occupational therapy as a means of preventing loss of autonomy linked to advancing age.
Mrs. Douja Sonia ABDELMOULA presented visual alterations and disturbances in the elderly and methods of their prevention.
The conference of Pr Leila Alouane, President of the Alzheimer Association Tunisia, gave the opportunity to future graduates to better understand their role in the nutritional management of people with Alzheimer’s, the main cause of dementia in the elderly.
In addition, Pr. Ag Rym MAAOUI, in collaboration with Pr. Hager RAHALI, highlighted the precious role of the care staff; she particularly emphasized the mission of the nurse, who is called upon to act in a particular field and to be able to assess and manage elderly patients.
The day was closed with a panel discussion which allowed the audience to appreciate the contributions that older people make to society.