In Bishkek, there is a space where elderly people can find support, enjoy movement, and socialize.
It is commonly believed that youth is a time full of opportunities. However, reality shows that mature age also opens doors to new acquaintances, creativity, and an active life. In Bishkek, there is a program called "Active Longevity," organized at the "Ardager" gerontology center under the Department of Social Development of the city administration, which provides such opportunities for elderly people.
Recently, participants of the program, gathered in the "Zhany Dem" group, celebrated International Women's Day on March 8.
The celebration turned out to be very warm and heartfelt. The event featured songs, dances, and poetry readings. Many of the performers took the stage for the first time, but the support of friends and like-minded individuals helped them feel confident.
Active participants of the group prepared creative performances that created a lively and friendly atmosphere at the celebration. Vocal and dance instructors — Lunara Jumabek, Tynara Jumabaeva, and Khalida Dodobaeva — participated in preparing the performances, helping to reveal the creative abilities of the participants.
These meetings emphasize an important truth: age is not measured merely by the years that have passed, but includes life experience, wisdom, and the ability to support one another. Elderly people know how to appreciate communication and find joy in meetings.
After the concert, the participants were in no hurry to leave. Over a cup of tea, they shared memories of their youth, discussed news, and laughed. In such moments, the strength of human support and respect is especially palpable.
The "Active Longevity" program has been functioning in Bishkek since the fall of 2024. It was created so that elderly people could remain active, in demand, and continue to develop. With the support of the public fund "Socium," here one can not only receive consultations from specialists but also try various activities.
Participants are offered free classes in Kyrgyz and English, digital literacy courses that teach the use of phones, the internet, and applications. Creative activities are also held — singing, dancing, drawing, knitting, and handicrafts. To maintain health, classes in gymnastics, yoga, and Nordic walking are organized.
It is especially important that people find new friends here. Many participants admit that they come not only for learning but also for socializing. For some, it is a way to avoid loneliness, while for others, it is an opportunity to become part of a friendly team.
As Batma Estebesova, a doctor in the "Active Longevity" department and director of the public fund "Socium," emphasizes, such initiatives are of great importance for elderly people:
“We observe how participants change when they start attending classes. They gain a circle of communication, new hobbies, and confidence in themselves. Our task is to support elderly people in their activity, help them feel supported, and realize that their life experience and wisdom are still valuable to society.”
To date, more than 260 pensioners in Bishkek are aware of the "Active Longevity" program, and about 60 people regularly attend classes and events. The community is gradually growing as participants tell each other about a place where they can spend time interestingly and beneficially.
The organizers report that the program is open to all elderly people who wish to socialize, learn, and lead an active lifestyle. Here, age is not judged — life experience and wisdom create an atmosphere of respect and goodwill.
Sometimes just one step can change life for the better — it is enough to come to a class, meet new people, try your hand at creativity, or simply spend time in the company of like-minded individuals.
Those who want to learn more about the program or join the classes are invited to contact the following numbers:
0 (996) 554 58 30 07
0 (996) 505 70 97 97
Perhaps here, for someone, a new, rich, and joyful life will begin.
