Even with the challenges akin to being a person with disability (PWD) or a senior citizen, it is even more important to live a healthy lifestyle. Learning about health and wellness can be instrumental for PWDs and senior citizens to live meaningful lives and contribute more to society. When PWDs and senior citizens follow a healthy lifestyle regimen, it can offset any worsening health conditions. In the process, they can maintain independence in doing what they love to do such as pursue hobbies or join community advocacies.
ATI RTC 8 conducted the Training on Culinary Medicine for PWDs to enhance the knowledge of the participants on the use of culinary medicine for preventive measures and preservation of health. Participants learned about their roles, rights and privileges as stipulated by Philippine laws. The training also included topics on pillars of lifestyle medicine and importance of nutrition, the basics of culinary medicine, its importance and benefits, and cooking and processing with culinary herbs and spices.
Resource persons during the training were Mr. Earl Patiic ( Social Development Officer), Ms. Ma. Reina P. Perez ( owner, Gazebo de Loondon in Basac, Loon, Bohol), and Dr. Maria Asuncion A. Jalad (Physician). Mr. Patiic gave a talk on Disability Perspective. Dr. Jalad, with her extensive experience in the field, gave a presentation on lifestyle and culinary medicine. Ms. Perez, being a culinary expert, guided participants in preparing a variety of plant-based cuisine. The topics gave the participants a holistic approach to healthy living.
Mr. Jose Ruiz Matugas, a participant, shares, “I am proud to be part of this program that helps improve the lives and health of PWDs. Thank you Lord. Thank you, ATI. Thank you LGU Naval. Because of you we get the chance to realign our lifestyles and learn how to live healthily. I am very happy.”
Twenty-two (22) persons with disabilities and senior citizens participated in the training held in Naval, Biliran from September 23 to 25, 2024. They left the training empowered with knowledge about the health benefits of culinary medicine and hands-on cooking skills.
