The Periodontics Study Program of the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), in collaboration with the GINASTEL (Healthy Teeth, Strong Body with Integrated Elderly School) program, held a community service event in Karangtalun Village, Imogiri District, on Friday, 1 November 2024. This event was designed to help improve the oral health of elderly residents while providing education on the importance of proper dental hygiene.
The event was opened with remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at UGM, Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D., who expressed appreciation for this collaboration as a demonstration of UGM's commitment to improving the quality of life for communities through education and healthcare services. Village officials, local health center doctors, as well as lecturers, alumni, and residents of the Periodontics Study Program at FKG UGM also attended.
During the event, the elderly participants received education on proper oral health care and free dental checkups. Lecturers, alumni, and resident students provided scaling services at the Village Multipurpose Building in Karangtalun, using portable scaling units and dental mobile units from FKG UGM.
The enthusiasm of the elderly participants was high, particularly during a light exercise session led by drg. Prasasti Bintarum. The organizers also held a quiz with attractive prizes to add excitement to the event.
drg. Prasasti Bintarum, founder of the GINASTEL program and an FKG UGM alumna, expressed her appreciation for the event. "I am very happy and feel very supported by this activity because it allows us to reach more villages for educational outreach. Karangtalun Village was previously rarely a location for social service activities, so we hope this initiative continues," she said.
drg. Angela Widjaja, a resident involved in the event, shared her joy in being part of this activity. "The presence of lecturers, alumni, and fellow residents allowed us to assist more elderly residents in Karangtalun Village," she said.
This collaboration highlights the importance of cross-sector cooperation in addressing public health needs. It also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of health, education, and innovation.
The GINASTEL program not only focuses on dental health but also considers the physical well-being of the elderly through exercise sessions, offering a holistic approach to elderly health. By combining education, creativity, and innovation, this program empowers elderly communities to become more independent in maintaining their health.
This event marks an important step in raising health awareness and preventive care among the elderly. Through this initiative, UGM's contribution to community service has become stronger.
The collaboration between the Periodontics Study Program of FKG UGM and the GINASTEL program serves as a concrete example of how educational institutions can contribute to community welfare. This aligns with the SDGs promoting quality education (Goal 4), innovation (Goal 9), and health and well-being (Goal 3).
Authors: drg. Rezmelia Sari, MSc., Sp.Perio., SubSp.RPID(K) & Pram
Editor: Shinta
