In Bishkek, there are spaces where elderly people can find support, move forward, and enjoy communication.
In our society, it is commonly believed that youth is a time for new opportunities. However, as practice shows, mature age can also open doors to communication, creativity, and an active life. In Bishkek, there is the "Active Longevity" program organized at the "Ardager" gerontological center under the Department of Social Development of the city hall, which provides just such support for elderly people.
Recently, participants of the program, who united in the group "Zhany Dem," celebrated International Women's Day on March 8.
The celebration turned out to be warm and heartfelt. Songs were sung, dances took place, and poems were read in the hall. Many participants went on stage for the first time, but this did not prevent them from feeling confident, as friends and mentors were nearby, helping to prepare the performances.
The group actively participated in the program, showcasing creative performances. Their sincere acts and friendly atmosphere made the celebration unforgettable. Support in preparing the concert was provided by vocal and dance instructors: Lunara Jumabek, Tynara Jumabaeva, and Khalida Dodobaeva, who help to unlock the creative abilities of the participants.
These meetings remind us of an important truth: age is not just the number of years lived, but also life experience, wisdom, and the ability to support one another. Older people know how to appreciate communication and genuinely rejoice in meetings.
After the concert, the participants were in no hurry to disperse. Over a cup of tea, they discussed youth, shared news, and laughed. In such moments, the strength of human support and mutual respect is particularly felt.
The "Active Longevity" program has been functioning in Bishkek since the fall of 2024, creating conditions for elderly people to remain active and in demand. With the help of the public fund "Socium," they can not only receive consultations from specialists but also participate in various activities.
Participants can attend free courses in Kyrgyz and English, as well as digital literacy courses, where they are taught to use phones, the internet, and applications. There are also creative activities — vocals, dances, painting, knitting, and handicrafts. For those wishing to maintain physical fitness, classes in gymnastics, yoga, and Nordic walking are organized.
It is important to note that participants also find new friends here. Many admit that they come not only to learn but also to socialize. For some, it is a chance to break out of loneliness, for others — to once again 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:
“We notice how people change when they start attending classes. They gain a new circle of communication, interests, and self-confidence. Our goal is to help elderly people remain active and understand that their life experience and wisdom are still valuable to society.”
To date, more than 260 pensioners in Bishkek are familiar with the "Active Longevity" program, of which about 60 people regularly participate in classes and events. The community continues to grow thanks to the recommendations of participants who share information with each other about the opportunity to spend time interestingly and usefully.
The organizers emphasize that the program is open to all elderly people who wish to communicate, learn new things, and lead an active life. Age is not evaluated here — on the contrary, the life experience and wisdom of the participants create an atmosphere of respect and goodwill.
Sometimes, just one step is enough for life to take on new colors: to come to a class, meet new people, try your hand at creativity, or simply spend time in good company.
Those who want to learn more about the program or join the classes are invited to contact the following phone numbers:
0 (996) 554 58 30 07
0 (996) 505 70 97 97
Perhaps, it is here that a new, bright page of active and joyful life will begin for someone.
