Kaolack specialists advocate for regional geriatric center

Medical specialists are advocating for the establishment of a regional geriatric center in Kaolack to improve healthcare for the elderly in Senegal’s central region. The call was made by Professor Mamadou Koumé, head of the geriatrics department at the Fann Regional Hospital Center, during a series of free medical consultations.

Organized under the ‘Aging with HIV’ project, medical teams provided consultations to over 500 seniors across Kaolack, Koutal, and Guinguinéo over a three-day period. For those with reduced mobility, mobile teams consisting of a geriatrician and a nurse conducted home visits, treating 34 individuals.

Medical assessments identified various chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, urological issues, hypertension, neurocognitive disorders, depression, and fall risks. Experts emphasized the need for an integrated care structure and encouraged families to support seniors in actively managing their health rather than attributing all ailments solely to the aging process.