THE Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology partnered with the local government unit of Iligan to implement a six-month wellness program for the elderly of the city.

A memorandum of agreement was signed between City Mayor Frederick Siao and Chancellor Alizedney Ditucalan earlier this month.

MSU-IIT said the research extension project is designed to enhance the physical fitness and overall health of the elderly population in the 44 barangays of Iligan City.

It will be led by Asst. Prof. Junah Lacasan Nagba, along with his team members, Prof. Corazon Biong, and Mikee Delan Bastismo, including College of Education Dean Prof. Monera Salic-Hairulla and Department of Physical Education faculty members.

“This holistic approach to elderly well-being reflects MSU-IIT’s dedication to public service, as the University takes the lead in fostering health, camaraderie, and overall quality of life for the elderly residents of Iligan City,” the school said.

“The program is set to become a cornerstone in the city’s commitment to the welfare of its senior citizens, embodying a vision of a healthier and more connected community,” it added.

Under the agreement, there will be a series of recreational interventions aimed at addressing age-related declines and promoting well-being among senior citizens from January to July 2024.

Light dance exercises (Zumba), yoga, tai-chi, basic aikido, and various dances will also be conducted at Iligan City Plaza every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 AM to 8 AM.

Meanwhile, a kick-off activity featuring a free pre-medical check-up in collaboration with the university’s clinic is part of the comprehensive approach.

A pre-physical fitness test using the PFT tool for the elderly will precede a culmination program in July 2024, which will include a post-physical fitness test to measure the program’s impact.