# Turkish municipal elderly support initiatives

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-municipal-elderly-support-initiatives
> Updated: 2026-08-24T10:55:34.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Municipalities in Turkey have introduced initiatives to support and honor elderly citizens. In Van, the “Tecrübe-i Hayat” program focuses on gathering residents aged 60 and over to record personal memories and life experiences to strengthen inter-generational ties.

In Konya, the Metropolitan Municipality launched the “Vefa Umresi” project, which facilitates Umrah pilgrimages for retirees and veterans who have not previously visited the holy lands. Participants are selected via a notary-conducted lottery. The project, coordinated with the Presidency of Religious Affairs, involves groups traveling to Mecca and Medina to perform rituals.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-24: Konya Metropolitan Municipality launches Umrah project for retirees and veterans

Konya Metropolitan Municipality has launched the ‘Vefa Umresi’ project, sending the first group of retirees and veterans on an Umrah pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/konya-metropolitan-municipality-launches-umrah-project-for-retirees-and-veterans

### 2026-08-01: Turkish Cities Launch Projects to Record Seniors' Stories and Offer Umrah Pilgrimages

Van and Konya municipalities in Turkey launch senior‑focused projects: Van records elders' life stories, while Konya organizes a group Umrah pilgrimage for seniors aged 60‑75.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-cities-launch-projects-to-record-seniors-stories-and-offer-umrah-pilgrimages

---
Cite as: Turkish municipal elderly support initiatives. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/turkish-municipal-elderly-support-initiatives