Within the scope of the ‘Respect for the Elderly Week’, Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Health Sciences Faculty and the Association of Elder Rights and Mental Health co-organized a conference titled “Başarılı Yaşlanma / Successful Ageing” at the Champion Angels Amphitheatre in the EMU Health Sciences Faculty. During the evenet, Geriatrics Specialist Prof. Dr. Mehmer Refik Mas from Kolan British Hospital provided insights on the physical, mental and social aspects of successful ageing.
“Ageing – A Natural and Inevitable Process of Life”
In her opening speech, Prof. Dr. Hatice Jenkins, the President of the Association of Elder Rights and Mental Health, stated that ageing is a natural and inevitable process of life and said, “What truly matters is experiencing this process in a way that is healthy, active, and peaceful”. Underscoring that the process of ageing should not be identified as a biological process, Prof. Dr. Jenkins underlined the importance of addressing the psychological, social and spiritual aspects of the process. Saying “Active participation of elders within the society, strengthening of social relations and enjoying elder hood are keystones of successful ageing”, Prof. Dr. Jenkins stressed that the crucial role everyone plays in achieving successful aging. She explained that the Association of Elder Rights and Mental Health operates with this goal in mind and informed participants about its mission and activities.
“Golden Age”
Dean of the EMU Health Sciences Faculty, Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç expressed that they had gathered for a very meaningful event, saying that she prefers to say “getting along in years” instead of “ageing” and that this process is referred as the “golden age” of life. Prof. Dr. Malkoç highlighted how the golden age contributes to a deeper understanding of life, wisdom, and personal growth. She also shared her experience of meeting Prof. Dr. Hatice Jenkins and emphasized that this conference would serve as a meaningful investment in the lives of young people. Concluding her speech, Prof. Dr. Malkoç paid homage to the 18 March Çanakkale Victory, honoring Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country, with deep respect and gratitude.
Taking the stage after Prof. Dr. Malkoç, Prof. Dr. Mas touched on the physical, mental and social aspects of successful ageing process, providing valuable insights on the sustainability of a health life. The conference provided suggestions for increasing the quality of life for elders. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions regarding topics they are curious about.
At the end of the event, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Refik Mas and Prof. Dr. Hatice Jenkins were presented with souvenirs by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and EMU Health Sciences Faculty Dean Prof. Dr. Malkoç.
