Attitudes towards the Elderly and People with Disabilities in Turkey

Attitudes towards elderly and disabled people in Turkey are shaped by both the influence of traditional values and the changes brought about by a modernizing society. While respect and helpfulness towards these groups is at the forefront of society in general, there are also challenges and different approaches.

Attitudes towards Elderly People

In traditional Turkish culture, the elderly are held in high esteem. The principle of “respect for the elder and love for the younger” is one of the basic building blocks of society.

• Family Respect and Care: Caring for elderly parents and relatives is often seen as a family duty and a moral responsibility. Older people are generally expected to live with their children or family members, although institutions such as nursing homes have become more common in recent years.
• Respect in Public Life: It is a common behavior to give space and help the elderly on public transportation or in public spaces. Addressing an elderly person as “aunt” or “uncle” is a sign of both respect and sincerity.
• Changing Approaches: With the modernizing social structure and the spread of the nuclear family model, it has become more common for elderly people to live alone or to live in institutions such as nursing homes. This situation reveals a search for a balance between traditional values and modern lifestyle.

Attitudes Towards People with Disabilities

Attitudes towards people with disabilities develop positively with the increase in the level of awareness.

• Empathy and Benevolence: Turkish society in general shows empathy and benevolence towards people with disabilities. Behaviors such as helping a person in a wheelchair to get off the sidewalk or get on a bus are quite common.
• Accessibility of Public Spaces: In recent years, legal regulations and projects to make public buildings, public transportation and sidewalks accessible have increased in order for disabled people to participate more in social life. Arrangements such as ramps, elevators and sensible walkways are part of these efforts.
• Combat Areas: Efforts are underway to ensure equal opportunities in workplaces and educational institutions.

In Turkey, attitudes towards both elderly and disabled people are generally warm and helpful. However, for the full integration of these groups into social life, both legal regulations and social awareness need to be continuously increased. What further steps should be taken in this regard?