Çavdır MYO's "Healthy Aging Workshop" is among WHO's exemplary age-friendly practices

The project carried out in collaboration with Çavdır Vocational School and Çavdır Municipality is supported within the scope of the Ministry of Youth and Sports' University Student Communities Cooperation and Support Program (ÜNİDES). The study, conducted under the auspices of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Öçal and coordinated by Lecturer Özge Kutlu, was carried out with the active participation of the academic staff and students of the Elderly Care Program.

The main aim of the workshop is to increase the social participation of elderly individuals living in rural areas, develop their digital skills, strengthen their health awareness, and improve their quality of life.

In the events organized within the scope of the workshop, participating elderly individuals gain new experiences in both social and cultural fields; with seminars on health and well-being, they strengthen healthy living habits. Thanks to digital literacy workshops, they feel more conscious and secure in using technology.

Additionally, the organized social events, games, and group activities reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation among elderly individuals, while also supporting intergenerational interaction and social solidarity. The active participation of university students in the process contributes to establishing a strong bond between young people and the elderly.

The fact that WHO showcases this project among exemplary practices has given an international dimension to MAKÜ's age-friendly university approach and vision of social contribution. At the same time, the project stands out as a successful model of local government-university collaboration, creating a sustainable example that combines academic studies with social benefit.

Participant feedback revealed that the workshop activities positively contributed to the quality of life of elderly individuals and created a valuable learning and experience area for students and academics.

The project aims to continue with more comprehensive activities in the upcoming period, reaching elderly individuals living in different rural areas and applying the model in other local communities.

Detailed information can be accessed from WHO's official website: WHO – Healthy Aging Workshop