The topic of 'Aging with Empathy' was discussed at MAKÜ Science Cafe.

The "Science Cafe" initiative, implemented in universities across Turkey under the coordination of the Higher Education Council (YÖK) Science Communication Office, continues in Burdur. The event, organized by Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Science Communication Coordination, was held at Taş Oda Konağı.

The opening speech of the program was made by Science Communication Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Murat Kara. Kara stated that the aim of the Science Cafe is to share the knowledge and experience produced at the university with all segments of society, and said:

“We do not want to limit science only to academic circles. We value bringing science to every individual in society, from children to young people, from the elderly to the working population. With these events, we want to hear accurate information from competent people and make contributions that will touch everyone's life. Today's topic is 'aging', a common reality of our society. Understanding and making sense of this process, which we will all encounter one day, is very valuable.”

“We should approach aging with empathy”

At the event, MAKÜ Aging Research Center (YAŞAM) Director and Social Work Department Faculty Member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deniz Say Şahin delivered a presentation titled ‘Aging with Empathy’. In her speech, Şahin emphasized that aging is not only a biological process but also a multidimensional phenomenon with psychological, social, and cultural aspects.

Şahin, saying “Aging is a common destiny for all of us. We need to understand this process not only from its medical aspects but also from its human aspects,” expressed that the concept of empathy plays a critical role in the aging process for both elderly individuals and society.

Şahin continued her words as follows:
“Today, when aging is mentioned, loneliness, illness, or the need for care often come to mind. However, aging also represents experience, wisdom, and a different phase of life. Approaching elderly individuals with empathy, understanding their feelings and thoughts, and making them feel valued is very important for both individual happiness and social cohesion. We will all age one day; therefore, as we approach our elders today, we will be approached in the same way tomorrow.”

Şahin stated that elderly individuals should not be left alone in social life and that families, young people, and social institutions have important duties. “Aging may be a period of slowing down for the individual, but this should not mean they disconnect from life. It is essential for us as a society to support them to remain active in social life and sustain their productivity,” she said.

The event continued interactively with the questions and opinions of the participants. At the end of the program, which attracted great interest, participants expressed that they gained new perspectives on the aging process.