Dr. Kemal Aydin Announces Policy Framework for the Elderly Population

By: Aziz Khatri

 Karachi: Chairman of the Ibn-e-sina institute, Istanbul, and Head of the Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Dr. Kemal Aydin, unveiled a comprehensive policy framework for the welfare of the elderly during a press conference held in Karachi. The strategy aims to define the role of society and the state in providing better support and care for the aging population. 

Addressing the press conference, Dr. Kamal Aydin said that the Age-Friendly Pakistan 2026–2035 strategy reflects a significant, positive, and long-term shift in Pakistan’s approach towards aging, health, and social care. He emphasized that the initiative seeks to recognize older citizens not as a burden, but as a valuable asset to society. 

The event was hosted by Daily Metro Morning and was attended by government officials, healthcare experts, researchers, civil society representatives, and members of the media. On the occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Dr. Kemal Aydin of the Ibn-e-sina institute and Metro Morning Editor Ehtesham Anwar to promote mutual cooperation. 

Speaking at the event, Metro Morning Editor Ehtesham Anwar stated that Pakistan will collaborate with international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations, to adopt evidence-based, age-friendly policies in line with global standards. He noted that this forum represents the first comprehensive national effort to address the challenges of aging in Pakistan in a systematic, coordinated, and sustainable manner. 

Renowned cardiologist Dr. Akram Sultan, while addressing the gathering, said that the Age-Friendly Pakistan strategy has the potential to improve the health and well-being of people across all age groups. He added that the initiative would help make cities safer, more accessible, and more inclusive for senior citizens, while also contributing to improved quality of life and increased life expectancy through health, social, and economic collaboration. 

Dr. Kemal Aydin Announces Policy Framework for the Elderly Population Aydin further stated that the strategy focuses on health, longevity, urban planning, mobility, and social support systems—areas that have long been neglected in public policy. He stressed that the initiative has been designed by drawing on global best practices while carefully addressing Pakistan’s unique demographic, social, and economic realities.

Among the honorable guests present at the event were Augustine G. Gill, Marjan Mashhadi, M. Saleem Sheikh, Fehmina Adeel, Prof. Dr. Sakina Samoo, Fariah Shah, Anum and Sahar Fanaz.