FK-KMK UGM. The Center for Health Behavior and Promotion in collaboration with the Department of Health Behavior, Environment, and Social Medicine and the Doctoral Program in Medical and Health Sciences FK-KMK UGM held a hybrid seminar entitled “Aging in the Special Region of Yogyakarta: Findings and Practical Implications”. This seminar was held on Friday (02/08) at the Theater Room, 2nd Floor, FK-KMK UGM Library Building.

The seminar, moderated by Pradhikna Yunik Nurhayati, S.IP., M.P.A., Ph.D. (Lecturer at the FISIPOL UGM), presented speakers from within and outside the country. Speaker 1 was Dr. Fitrina M. Kusumaningrum, M.P.H from FK-KMK UGM, speaker 2 was Julia Schroders, M.A., M.Med.,Sc., Ph.D. from Umea Universitet, and the discussant was Andreas Bayu Nugroho S.T., M.P.A from the Regional Development Planning Agency (BAPPEDA) DIY.

The first session delivered by Dr. Fitrina discussed her research on the topic of successful aging in Sleman Regency based on the perspective of the elderly, family, and community. Dr. Fitrina highlighted the importance of health indicators, both physical and mental, which are influenced by psychosocial factors in the elderly. The role of caregivers also needs special attention.

Next, the session delivered by Julia Schroders discussed the influence of social relationship interventions on aging in Yogyakarta. According to Julia, social relationships affect biological, psychological, and behavioral aspects, all of which contribute to the health of the elderly. Julia also highlighted the loneliness that is often experienced by the elderly. “Loneliness is really a public health issue and a strong factor that makes more people utilize more healthcare,” she said.

The discussion session was delivered by Andreas Bayu. Andreas stated that the elderly in DIY receive special attention from the government through protection, elderly-friendly areas, social security, and dignified behavior. In addition, Andreas also revealed that the strategy for handling elderly health must be carried out across sectors by involving various parties.

This seminar is an effort to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 Healthy and Prosperous Life, SDG 10 Reduced Inequality, SDG 16 Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17 Partnerships to Achieve Goals. (Reporter: Fauziah)