Istanbul Elders Struggle to Make Ends Meet, Report Finds

The Istanbul Planning Agency's latest report paints a stark picture of the challenges facing our elderly population. The "Istanbul in Old Age Well-being" barometer reveals that a significant portion of seniors, nearly 40%, are struggling financially, unable to cover basic needs or enjoy cultural life. This is not just a number; it's a reflection of the daily reality for many of our parents and grandparents.

The disparities are particularly concerning. While those in higher income brackets report good health, a much smaller percentage of lower-income seniors share this sentiment. This economic divide directly impacts their well-being, with many unable to afford essential medications or even proper nutrition. The report highlights that over 22% couldn't buy needed medicine and 36.8% reported insufficient or irregular diets.

Furthermore, the findings underscore a growing need for psychological support, especially among women, who reported a higher need for such services compared to men. The fact that a large majority of those needing support cannot access it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. As a publication deeply rooted in Istanbul, we believe these findings must spur concrete action to ensure a dignified life for our elders.