Turkey to hold simultaneous walks in 81 provinces for World Seniors Day

Turkey's Ministry of Family and Social Services has announced that simultaneous walks will be held in 81 provinces on October 1 to mark World Seniors Day. The initiative aims to highlight the importance of intergenerational solidarity and promote healthy, active aging.

Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş noted that the United Nations has set the theme for 2026 as ‘Longevity Era: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,’ emphasizing the need for new societal approaches due to increasing life expectancy. The ministry is addressing aging through various frameworks, including the ‘Family and Population 10-Year Plan’ and upcoming national aging summits.

To support the elderly, the ministry currently provides home care assistance to 107,731 individuals and personal care through the National Vefa Program to 132,880 citizens. Additionally, 173,103 people are supported via the Elderly Support Program. The government also operates 34 Rejuvenation Universities and 43 Active Living Centers to facilitate lifelong learning and social engagement.