University-Wide Extension Project: Its Impact on Holistic Wellness of Third Agers and Contribution to Development Goals
Abstract
Holistic wellness is vital to sustaining sound mind and healthy body of third-agers. These individuals are considered vulnerable. Previous surveys indicated limited wellness activities among third agers. With this, an extension project was designed and implemented to address this concern. This paper evaluated the impact of the project on the holistic wellness of third-agers and determined its contribution to national and international goals. The result chain framework was used to identify the impact. It gathered data through survey tools and interviews supported by annual reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that the university-wide extension project was successful in implementing activities and producing desired outputs. Its outcomes are evidenced in the attainment of its vision, mission, and objectives. As found, the project had a very high impact on the holistic wellness of third agers in each dimension and as a whole. This means that the third-agers have balanced well-being. This paper also highlights the contributions of the project in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022, ambisyon 2040, and sustainable development goals. In the end, relevant recommendations are specifically articulated for future actions.