An overview of the healthy aging program for PinoY (HAPPY) senior citizens research: A cross-sectional study among community-dwelling older Filipinos

BACKGROUND: As an effort in aligning with the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing, this paper reflects the methods and population characteristics from a comprehensive health and nutrition study among older Filipino adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults aged ≥60 years (n = 562) across the country. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and t-tests were performed by sex and age. RESULTS: The overall mean age was (69.4 ± 6.3) years. The Body Mass Index was significantly higher among those 60-69 years old compared to those >70. The lifestyle and health information varied in terms of significance between the sex and age groups. DISCUSSION: This comprehensive study presented the profile of participants and a detailed methodology. Utilizing the data is highly encouraged to develop evidence-based policies relevant to the country driven by the demographic shift.