CIU Delivers Important Message on the Ageing Process

The Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Cyprus International University (CIU) shared important insights on the significance of healthy and active ageing as part of the World Older Persons Day on 1 October. Assist. Prof. Dr. Havva Gözgen stated that ageing is a natural part of life and emphasized that maintaining physical mobility, independence, and quality of life is possible in later years.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Havva Gözgen noted that healthy ageing does not simply mean living free from disease. She stated, “Healthy and active ageing aims to enable individuals to remain as physically, mentally, and socially active as possible, maintain their independence in daily life, and preserve their quality of life.”

Emphasizing the important role of regular physical activity in maintaining mobility as people age, Gözgen explained that exercises appropriate to an individual’s health condition can contribute to improving muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. She also noted that such activities are important for reducing the risk of falls and supporting independence in activities of daily living.

Gözgen stated that physiotherapists play an important role in assessing the physical condition and needs of older individuals and developing personalized exercise programs. She emphasized that exercise should be planned safely and in accordance with the individual’s current health condition.

Gözgen also noted that World Older Persons Day provides an important opportunity to recognize the place of older individuals in society. She emphasized that older people should not be viewed solely as recipients of care services, but as valuable members of society who contribute their knowledge, experience, and accumulated wisdom. She stated that healthy ageing encompasses the ability to maintain an independent, active, and high-quality life in the later stages of life.