Some of the key takeaways from this study of 35–55-year-olds, those most likely to be thinking about the future, are that most do not feel ready for old age, and they are certainly not prepared for it. Their greatest concerns relate to health, mobility, and mental fitness. They are also not ready for retirement economically with inadequate financial preparations in place. According to the research findings, economic concerns for the retirement period are quite strong with 45.4% of participants acknowledging that their pensions will be far too low. Many can’t imagine a different old age to the one their parents and grandparents experienced. They have no clear dreams about what might be possible. It is just not something that the Turkish population has had to think about historically. Türkiye was known for many years for its young population – but the reality is that Türkiye is ageing and it’s not ready. Unsurprisingly, participants want to live longer, but 54% make no effort to achieve this goal, which is closely linked to good health, nutrition, having a purpose in life, and social activities. And while 55% of participants wish to live an independent and self-sufficient old age only 8% prefer out of home care services.
Based on the outcomes, Agesa recognised the opportunity to raise awareness about these concerns but also about how people can start to prepare for ageing. This was achieved through a campaign that highlighted healthy, active, and happy elderly role models; creating platforms to increase intergenerational dialogue and solidarity since so many of the misperceptions reflect the lack of historical dialogue; and through awareness studies and incentives linked to financial preparedness. These efforts will continue within the scope of the At All Ages project which over the past 5 years has reached a staggering 38 million people.
