IPB University Professor Initiates Family-Friendly Village Program: Cares for Healthy, Resilient, and Happy Elderly
Prof Euis Sunarti, a professor at IPB University, has organized the Development of the Family-Friendly Village Model in collaboration with the Directorate of Agromaritime Community Development (DPMA) at IPB and the Family Activists (GiGa) Indonesia. One component of this program is the Elderly Care Program “Healthy, Resilient, and Happy”.
The activity was attended by 20-23 elderly individuals in RW 9, Ciherang Village, Dramaga District, Bogor. Prof Euis Sunarti facilitated the program along with Dr Defina, who also comes from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences (IKK), Faculty of Human Ecology (Fema) at IPB University.
“This program aims to enhance attention and self-care for the elderly, as well as understanding the developmental tasks of the elderly. Additionally, the program aims to promote positive self-concept and opportunities for elderly contributions to society,” said Prof Euis.
She mentioned that the elderly participants showed great enthusiasm for the program. They were delighted to learn simple tips for self-acceptance and self-love, as well as tips for staying fit and healthy.
Through this program, explained Prof Euis, the elderly gained an understanding of the developmental tasks that need attention and fulfillment. In addition to explanations, the elderly were asked to repeat several developmental tasks to ensure understanding and follow-up actions.
“Despite their various activities, it turns out that there are still many opportunities for the elderly to participate in building the Family-Friendly Village, including redirecting grandchildren to interact less with gadgets,” she elaborated.
Prof Euis revealed various problems faced by the elderly in the activity location, ranging from physical health issues, psychological health issues, economic problems, to family support problems.
From this program, it was also revealed that the elderly are still the mainstay of the family, with many becoming the main support for their children’s families. The elderly take care of and babysit grandchildren because their children have to work.
“Quite a few elderly individuals still work by selling goods, working as laundry workers, and as domestic helpers. For those who are no longer able to work, they are supported by their children who also live modestly. These elderly individuals are usually widows living with their children-in-law and grandchildren. Some of the elderly divide their homes into several sections for their children to live in,” she mentioned.
Furthermore, the psychological problems experienced by the elderly include feelings of annoyance, offense, and even anger due to various reasons. These conditions are addressed in various ways, such as complaining, joining in anger, remaining silent, or channeling through religious activities. (*/Rz) (IAAS/Hap)
