Observed annually between March 18–24, Respect for the Elderly Week serves as an important opportunity to raise awareness about the needs of older individuals and to strengthen their role in society. Aging is not merely a biological process, but a multidimensional life stage encompassing experience, knowledge, and social contribution.

With the increase in life expectancy, the proportion of the elderly population is rising globally, making the concept of healthy aging more significant than ever. Healthy aging is closely associated with maintaining functional capacity, performing daily activities independently, and actively participating in social life. In this context, physiotherapy and rehabilitation play a crucial role in supporting physical function and improving quality of life.

Age-related changes such as decreased muscle strength, balance impairments, mobility limitations, and increased risk of falls can directly affect independence. Therefore, individualized exercise programs, balance and strengthening interventions, and early preventive approaches are essential components of healthy aging.

Older individuals represent invaluable members of society through their experience and knowledge. Supporting their active participation in social life and reducing risks such as loneliness and social isolation is a shared responsibility of all.

As the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Istanbul Gelisim University, we emphasize the importance of scientific approaches that support healthy, active, and independent aging, and we aim to increase awareness during Respect for the Elderly Week.