Fronton, France – A recent conference, “Bien vieillir, parlons-en!” (Aging Well, Let’s Talk About It), brought together residents and leading medical experts to discuss strategies for maintaining health and well-being in later life. The event, held on February 18th at the Préau des Chevaliers de Malte, underscored a growing recognition of the challenges and opportunities presented by an aging population.
Approximately sixty people attended the conference, organized by the Fronton municipality in partnership with the University Hospital of Toulouse (CHU de Toulouse). Mayor Hugo Cavagnac expressed his satisfaction with the strong public interest, stating that addressing the needs of an aging population is “one of the great contemporary challenges.” The initiative is part of the European program Prédisc, aiming to foster proactive approaches to healthy aging.
The conference featured presentations from specialists at the Gérontopole of Toulouse, a leading center for research on aging. Dr. Sophie Guyonnet highlighted the critical importance of not just extending lifespan, but also extending “healthspan” – the period of life spent in good health. She emphasized the need to reduce the gap between how long people live and how long they live well, noting that policies should prioritize maintaining quality of life for seniors. Dr. Guyonnet referenced the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ICOPE program, which is being implemented locally through ICOPE Monitor at the CHU de Toulouse, to detect age-related vulnerabilities early on. Learn more about the ICOPE program from the WHO.
Beyond simply treating illness, the experts stressed the power of preventative measures. Dr. Gabor Abellan Van Kan discussed the vital role of nutrition in preserving muscle mass and energy levels as people age. Dr. Eva Peyrusqué emphasized the accessibility and benefits of physical activity, noting its ability to combat sedentary lifestyles, improve balance, and maintain independence. Falls, identified by Dr. Stéphane Gérard as the leading cause of accidents among seniors, were also addressed, with a focus on preventative strategies like strength training, balance exercises, and home modifications.
A Shift Towards Preventative Healthcare
The conference signaled a broader shift in focus for Fronton, moving from a reactive “culture of care” to a proactive “culture of prevention,” according to Mayor Cavagnac. He announced the formation of a future “Conseil consultatif des Sages” (Advisory Council of Elders) to actively involve seniors in the development and evaluation of municipal policies. This council will ensure that the experiences and perspectives of older residents are integrated into decision-making processes.
This collaborative approach between the municipality and the CHU de Toulouse represents an innovative model for addressing the challenges of an aging population. Researchers from the Gérontopole are venturing beyond the hospital setting to engage directly with the community, aiming to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being. As Dr. Gabor Abellan Van Kan explained, the goal is to bring the science of aging “to the concrete and the everyday.” Read more about the partnership on the Fronton city website.
The evening concluded with an informal gathering, allowing attendees to directly interact with the specialists and ask questions. This open dialogue fostered a sense of community and shared commitment to promoting healthy aging in Fronton.
Looking ahead, Fronton’s commitment to preventative healthcare and community engagement offers a promising model for other municipalities facing similar demographic shifts. The success of this initial conference suggests a growing demand for accessible information and collaborative solutions to support healthy aging.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health and aging. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
