IGU Participated in the Elderly Workshop with the Theme "Active Ageing and Social Participation”

The “Elderly Workshop” organized by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services was held on August 27, 2025, at the Darülaceze Presidency with broad participation. Representing Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin from the Faculty of Health Sciences attended the workshop.

The Ageing Process in Türkiye Was Evaluated

Hosted by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services, the “Elderly Workshop” held on August 27, 2025, at the Darülaceze Presidency opened the floor for discussion on the future of social, economic, and health-based ageing policies in Turkey, where the elderly population is rapidly increasing. Representing IGU, Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin from the Faculty of Health Sciences delivered a presentation under the theme of active ageing and social participation, sharing key insights.
The workshop comprehensively addressed how Turkey is preparing for the ageing process, the adequacy of existing services, and the steps that need to be taken in the future. Topics such as the integration of elderly individuals into social life, accessibility during urbanization, the quality of care services, and the vulnerability of the elderly in crisis situations like natural disasters were discussed by academics, public institutions, and local government representatives.

The Elderly Population is Rapidly Increasing!

Presentations during the workshop, which referenced data from the Turkish Statistical Institute, revealed a significant rise in the elderly population across the country, especially in Istanbul. While the percentage of individuals aged 65 and over was 9.1% in 2019 across Turkey, this figure rose to 10.6% in 2024. In Istanbul, the rate was recorded as 8.3%. Projections suggest that by 2030, 13.5% of Turkey’s population and 11% of Istanbul’s population will be over 65. By 2040, these figures are expected to reach 17.9% for Turkey and 15% for Istanbul. This striking demographic shift necessitates a complete redesign of social services, healthcare systems, and urban planning for the elderly.
The foundation for institutional development in the field of ageing in Turkey was laid with the National Ageing Action Plan published in 2007. In 2019, declared the “Year of the Elderly,” the 1st Elderly Council held in Ankara significantly raised awareness on ageing policies. Key topics included active ageing, elderly rights, age-friendly cities, and the ageing economy.

A Comprehensive and Impactful Presentation by Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin: The Role of Active Ageing in the Health System

Representing Istanbul Gelişim University, Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin emphasized in her presentation titled "Active Ageing and Social Participation" that preventive healthcare services play a vital role in improving the quality of life for the elderly. She stressed the need for annual "Geriatric Screenings" for individuals aged 65 and over at Family Health Centers. According to Asst. Prof. Elkin, these screenings are not only essential for detecting illnesses but also for assessing general functional health.
She highlighted that such screenings should include the management of chronic diseases, vaccinations, nutritional counseling, cancer screenings, promotion of physical activity, education on polypharmacy, and improving health literacy. Asst. Prof. Elkin also underlined the importance of early detection of cognitive issues such as depression and dementia, identifying fall risks, and analyzing daily living activities. She noted that Family Health Centers have a strategic role not only in treatment but also in maintaining and improving the quality of life of elderly individuals.

Primary Healthcare Services Stand Out for Home Care and Mental Health Support

Asst. Prof. Elkin further emphasized the need to integrate mental health support mechanisms for the elderly into primary healthcare services. She pointed out that comprehensive geriatric services—such as sleep regulation, pain management, and assessment of sensory abilities (vision and hearing)—have a direct impact on the independence of elderly individuals in daily life. She also stated that Family Health Centers bear significant responsibility in coordinating home healthcare and caregiving services, and that there is a need to enhance the competencies and coordination capacities of personnel in these areas.

Elderly Health Monitoring is Being Conducted at Family Health Centers

Specialist Dr. Bekir Aktura, Deputy Head of the Public Health Services Department of the Istanbul Provincial Health Directorate, who also participated in the workshop, announced that as of 2025, elderly health monitoring has been integrated into the performance system for family physicians. He stated that the health follow-ups of individuals aged 65 and over are now being systematically carried out. This new regulation is expected to improve regular health check-ups for the elderly and strengthen their access to healthcare services.

Istanbul Gelisim University Continues to Be Present in All Areas that Concern Society!

Within its mission of contributing academically and scientifically to social issues that affect all segments of society, Istanbul Gelişim University not only observes developments in social fields but also actively participates in producing solutions and shaping policy. In this context, the scientific perspectives and recommendations shared by Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin during the “Elderly Workshop” stand as a strong example of the university's vision for academic production that benefits society.