Where can elderly people seek communication? About a year ago, a branch of "Active Longevity" opened in Bishkek as part of the gerontological center "Ardager," which operates under the Department of Social Development of the mayor's office. Here, free classes are offered: from language courses to yoga, singing, and dancing. Since its inception, this center has become a magnet for hundreds of elderly people. The study of the Kyrgyz language is particularly in demand. The processes at the center are managed by the department's doctor and the director of the NGO "Socium," Batma Estebesova, as well as social worker Erkinai Kalakulova. We at the editorial office of Kaktus.media visited this center and learned about its activities.
How It All Started
The branch consists of three small rooms, and although the space is limited, elderly people are grateful for the opportunity for communication and self-improvement. How did it all begin? Previously, the premises were vacant, and there were plenty of people willing to occupy it. At that moment, Baktygul Ismailova, the director of the social development department, turned to Estebesova and Kalakulova for help in launching the active longevity initiative and opening courses for elderly people.She shared that she often argued with her husband at home over various issues. But after she learned to use Chat GPT in the courses, the situation changed. "Now, when we start arguing, I just turn to Chat GPT for help. And as a result, my husband says, 'You are so smart.' And I reply, 'It's Chat GPT that's smart.' This means our center is also smart — we are learning and developing here," she said, expressing gratitude to the organizers of the "Active Longevity" branch.
"I see how the participants glow with happiness when they come to 'Active Longevity.' Despite the distance and time costs, they practice qigong, therapeutic exercises, sing, and communicate. This is truly priceless," noted the director of the NGO "Socium."
She also added that there are no large accessible centers in Bishkek where elderly people could receive such services close to their homes. The opening of such institutions would emphasize the state's care for elderly citizens.
Address of the branch: Chuy Avenue, 40 (building of CSM No. 4, entrance from the west side).
