Experts note that the elderly population in Turkey is rapidly increasing, with the rate exceeding 9 percent as of 2023, and state that the inadequacy of existing elderly care services negatively affects individuals' physical and psychological health.
Lecturer Büşra Kul emphasized that the increasing elderly population significantly boosts the need for care services, stating, “Elderly care is a field that requires highly qualified and well-trained personnel. The training of personnel working in elderly care is not limited to medical knowledge alone. Caregivers, nurses, and doctors must be trained in a way that suits the special needs of the elderly.”
Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services Elderly Care Program Head Lecturer Büşra Kul evaluated the situation of the elderly population in Turkey and the need for elderly care services, on the occasion of the March 18-24, 2025 Respect for the Elderly Week.
The Elderly Population is Steadily Increasing in Turkey!
Lecturer Büşra Kul stated that the elderly population in Turkey has a steadily increasing rate, exceeding 9 percent as of 2023, and said, “This rate continues to rise with advancements in health services and social security policies. However, services for elderly care often remain inadequate, which can negatively affect the physical and psychological health of elderly individuals. The increasing elderly population also significantly increases the need for care services. Healthcare services, comfortable living spaces, and psychosocial support are fundamental components of elderly care. Therefore, investments in elderly care services must be increased.”
Elderly Care Must Be Multidimensional…
Kul pointed out that elderly care is not just a medical issue, saying, “The psychological and social needs of elderly individuals are at least as important as their physical health. Psychological problems such as social isolation, depression, and loneliness are common among the elderly. Therefore, elderly care must be multidimensional, addressing not only physical health problems but also mental and social conditions. Encouraging the participation of elderly individuals in social activities, providing psychological support, and strengthening family ties are important in this regard.”
The Qualification of Elderly Care Personnel Must Be Increased
Kul also stated that elderly care is a field requiring highly qualified and well-trained personnel, saying, “The training of personnel working in elderly care is not limited to medical knowledge alone. Caregivers, nurses, and doctors must be trained in a way that suits the special needs of the elderly. This training should be shaped by a holistic approach aimed at meeting the physiological, psychological, and social needs of the elderly. It is also of great importance for elderly care personnel to possess human qualities such as empathy, patience, and communication skills. Training programs should cover a wide range from primary to advanced care, as well as care techniques specific to the elderly.”
The Role of Families is Significant
Lecturer Büşra Kul also said that families are the cornerstones of elderly care, adding, “However, due to modern living conditions and economic difficulties, many families are unable to provide adequate care for their elderly relatives or face psychological and physical challenges during this process. Training for families can help them manage care processes more healthily. Additionally, support groups, psychological support services, and financial aid packages for families can make the care process more sustainable.”
What Can Be Done to Develop Elderly Care Services?
Lecturer Büşra Kul also listed what needs to be done to develop elderly care services as follows:
“Short-term: Awareness should be created for elderly care services, and services such as short-term care services, home care support, and health screenings should be expanded. Additionally, emergency support hotlines for the elderly can be established.
Mid-term: Social policies supporting elderly care should be developed. The capacity of special care homes for the elderly should be increased, the quality of these services should be monitored, and their accessibility ensured.
Long-term: A comprehensive national strategy for elderly care should be determined, and specialized fields unique to the elderly should be established within the healthcare system. Research and projects that will improve the quality of life for the elderly should be encouraged, and cooperation between the state and the private sector in this area should be strengthened.
Developing a policy that considers not only the medical but also the social and psychological dimensions of elderly care is of great importance for elderly individuals to lead healthy, happy, and peaceful lives.”