NERS NEWS — Surabaya, April 30, 2026 – Gout is one of the non-communicable diseases commonly experienced by the elderly and often causes complaints such as joint pain, swelling, and limitations in daily activities. As the number of cases increases, various promotive and preventive efforts continue to be carried out, one of which is through education on gout exercise as a supportive therapy that is safe and easy to perform. According to healthcare professionals, light physical activity such as exercise plays an important role in helping control gout symptoms. Regular exercise can improve blood circulation, help maintain body metabolism, and reduce joint stiffness.
In line with this, according to the American College of Rheumatology (2020), gout management does not only focus on pharmacological therapy but also includes lifestyle modifications such as physical activity, dietary regulation, and weight control. In addition, according to the European League Against Rheumatism (2023), regular physical activity is safe and beneficial in reducing pain and improving joint function in patients with musculoskeletal diseases, including gout.
This health promotion activity was carried out by students of the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, on April 30, 2026, at UPTD Griya Wreda Surabaya. Education was delivered directly to the elderly through counseling methods and group exercise practice adjusted to the participants’ physical conditions. During the activity, the elderly were invited to follow a series of exercise movements starting from warm-up, core movements, to cool-down. The movements focused on stretching and strengthening muscles in joint areas such as the legs and hands. In addition to helping reduce pain complaints, this exercise also plays a role in improving body balance, thereby reducing the risk of falls among the elderly.
This activity aims to improve community health literacy and strengthen efforts in the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. This program is also aligned with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, which emphasizes the importance of improving health and well-being for all age groups. However, healthcare professionals still emphasize the importance of caution. Gout exercise is not a substitute for medical treatment. Elderly individuals are advised to consult healthcare professionals before engaging in regular physical activity, especially those with certain health conditions.
Through this activity, it is hoped that the elderly at UPTD Griya Wreda Surabaya will better understand the benefits of gout exercise and be able to apply it in their daily lives. This activity represents a tangible contribution to improving the quality of life of the elderly through promotive and preventive approaches.
Writer: Zalsa Al Firmansyah
Supervisor: Dr. Elida Ulfiana, S. Kep., Ns., M.Kep.
