Gelisim News

According to the studies of the World Health Organization, it is stated that the proportion of the elderly population living in the cities of developing countries worldwide will increase 16 times and reach 908 million from 1998 to 2050. Experts say that this number means a quarter of the total population. Stating that a quarter of the population cannot be mentioned in a society where production, life and social structure remain isolated, Gerontologist from Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) School of Health Sciences Gerontology Department Lecturer Sıla Ayan said: “In order to support the active aging of the elderly, the cities that are physically, psychologically and socially appropriate, the most active, and the most friendly to provide satisfaction, should be designed.”
 
“ELDERLY PREFERENCES MUST BE RESPECTED”
 
Expressing that there are principles that should not be overlooked in the planning of elderly-friendly city, Ayan said: “It should not be forgotten that the possibilities and competencies of the elderly vary widely. It is very important to adopt a flexible approach to the needs and preferences related to aging, to respect the decisions and preferences of the elderly, to protect the fragile ones, to support individuals to participate and contribute to all aspects of their lives.”
 
NOISE REDUCES THE QUALITY OF LIFE
 
Emphasizing that problems such as noise, air pollution and crowd decrease the quality of life of the elderly, Gerontologist from Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) School of Health Sciences Gerontology Department Lect. Sıla Ayan said: “In the World Health Organization’s guide, the quotation from an elderly person from Istanbul is as follows: ‘You get up at four o'clock from your bed because of the noise outside. A clean and peaceful environment is needed.’”
 
Gerontologist Lecturer Sıla Ayan stated that “Green spaces created in cities for both healthy and fragile seniors, their relatives and caregivers are important meeting points for breathing and relaxation”, and added: “The construction of parks with appropriate number and features of toilets, trash cans and sheltered living areas according to the weather conditions are among the features of the elderly-friendly public space. Sidewalks must be made from a material that is flat, non-slip and comfortable to walk, without any risk of snagging and falling, should increase the quality of life of the elderly and facilitate their participation in life. There should be no tools, parked vehicles or trees on the sidewalks. Sidewalks should not complicate the movement of people using wheelchairs or auxiliary equipment, priority should be given to all pedestrians and especially to disadvantaged sections.”
 
“CRIME AND VIOLENCE ARE OBSTACLES OF LIFE”
 
Gerontologist Sıla Ayan stating that the risks observed in cities such as crime, violence, drug use, homelessness, extortion and robbery restrict the participation and quality of life of the elderly, said: “Considering the importance that a person feels safe in the environment they live in, in terms of productivity, well-being and health status, the elderly should be ensured to spend their lives in living spaces where they feel safe. The factors threatening security can be of human origin as well as nature. Insecure building constructions, natural disasters and lack of precautions can cause security risks.”