Mersin is a Mediterranean city with a population of 1,727,255. With its warm climate, purchasing power parity, the availability of all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables and low home prices – it is an attractive place for the elders of the population and for retired people from other cities in Turkey. 210.000 of our population is considered to be elderly people and this number is forecasted to double up in the next ten years, with the ever increasing life standards and health services in Mersin.
According to our constitution; being a social state is one of the principal characteristics of The Republic of Turkey. Which is why we are aiming to increase the life standards of our elderly population and implementing practices that enhance their lives. Which is why we would like to become a part of the Age Friendly Cities network, and be aware of new solution and practices, and be a part of the conversation around age-friendly improvements.
Mersin is committed to implement all kinds of activities and realizing the required criteria of the WHO Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities in the fields of health, social services, accessibility, transportation, vocational education, town planning , etc.
Mersin has produced a “current situation report” providing information of services provided for elder people in the following eight domains: • Outdoor Spaces and Buildings, Transportation, Housing, Social Participation, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment, Communication and Information, and Community Support and Health Services. In addition, Mersin has planned activities in all these domains.