Building an Age-Friendly Future: Our Insights from the PAL Expocare Fair in Izmir
As the 65+ Elder Rights Association, we were thrilled to participate in PAL Expocare – Care for Older Persons and Healthy Ageing Fair, where current scientific developments and care models for the later stages of life were discussed. We took part as a stakeholder in this meaningful event, held for the first time on February 5-7, 2026, at the Izmir Tepekule Convention and Exhibition Center.
Throughout the symposium, our stand served as a vibrant meeting point for older people, rights advocates, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas. Our “Safe Housing” guide and “Age-Friendly City Contract” campaign were among the documents that attracted significant interest from visitors. We provided guidance on a wide range of inquiries, from legal concerns such as “Is it legal for notaries to request a mental health report just because I am over 65?” to social ones like “I am looking for activities that would interest my older parents.”
The Energy of Lifelong Learners
The most promising aspect of the fair for us was the boundless energy of the older visitors who filled the halls. We engaged with participants, many of whom came from municipal social life centers and were continuing their education at Third Age Universities. Meeting individuals who approached our stand with determination, saying, “Let’s learn what our rights are!” not only made us smile but also reminded us of the importance of our rights-based struggle. Connecting with a group so open to lifelong learning and self-advocacy is the greatest source of motivation for our association.
"Ask the Expert": A Guide to Selecting Care Homes and Caregivers
In the “Ask the Expert” session, one of the most popular segments of the symposium, our esteemed members Vildan Karademir, Burç Özergül, and Nurse Çiğdem Pehlivan delivered a presentation titled “What to Consider When Selecting Care Homes and Caregivers?”
Rather than focusing on purely theoretical information, Ms. Karademir, Mr. Özergül, and Nurse Pehlivan provided practical insights to facilitate the lives of older persons and their families. The presentation emphasized critical points for a rights-based and secure care process. The high level of participant satisfaction reaffirmed the pressing need for such practical guidance.
Chair Yoga with Özge Ceylan: Movement at Every Age!
Beyond cognitive empowerment, we did not overlook physical well-being. The Chair Yoga activity, led by instructor Özge Ceylan, added vibrant energy to the fair. The smiles and the visible sense of relaxation among participants of all ages after these accessible exercises were truly worth seeing.
With Gratitude
Throughout the fair, we had the opportunity to listen to distinguished speakers, observe best practices from Izmir municipalities’ initiatives for older people, and meet with private organizations providing support services. We learned a great deal.
We would like to thank Kare Fuarcılık, all contributing stakeholders, and all the friends who visited our stand during this inaugural and valuable organization in our country. As the 65+ Elder Rights Association, we will continue to work toward a world where older people are not merely “recipients of care” but active subjects of their rights, raising our voice on every platform.