To mark World Physical Activity Day, two community-based physical activity sessions were held on April 7–8, 2025, in Lipjan and Gjakova. More than 50 elders living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) joined the sessions, which included light exercises, practical health advice, nutrition guidance, and tips for managing chronic conditions.
In Lipjan, these activities have been ongoing for years. Organized by the Main Family Medicine Center (MFMC) and supported by the Municipality, they are well integrated into local health promotion efforts. But, this year, for the first time, Gjakova followed suit. Its Municipality and MFMC organized a similar event, marking a significant step forward in expanding preventative health services.
Luljeta Reçica, a nurse from the Lipjan MFMC, led training sessions in both Lipjan and Gjakova, where she guided participants through exercises to support physical health. Meanwhile, Dr. Pranvera Krasniqi covered the educational part, sharing tips on healthy living, nutrition, and managing chronic conditions.
These sessions are part of a broader effort to shift healthcare delivery beyond treatment alone, toward prevention, inclusion, and community engagement. They demonstrate how elderly can take an active role in their own health and well-being.
For many participants, it was their first time attending such an event, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Lipjan and Gjakova are both demonstration sites for the Accessible Quality Healthcare (AQH) project. These sites aim to showcase how primary healthcare can implement quality interventions across the
entire patient journey, from patient education to building capacities of staff to offer quality services.
Expanding similar models to other municipalities could improve community health and empower more people, especially elders, to take charge of their well-being.