The “Age-Friendly
Mobility in Istanbul: 65+ and Transportation Workshop” within the scope of the Istanbul
Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) Phase II Implementation Project, jointly co-financed with the EU within the framework of the
Sectoral Operational Programme for Transport (USOP) managed by the Ministry of
Transport and Infrastructure, was held on
June 24, 2025. The workshop was
designed to highlight the urban mobility experiences of individuals aged 65 and
over and to promote sustainable transportation policies related to this
demographic.
The event addressed the high rate of public transportation use among
the 65+ age group in Istanbul and emphasized the importance of accessibility
for older adults. Participants underlined that age-friendly transportation is not
only about physical access but also about fostering social inclusion.
In the morning sessions, Seda Özdemir, Deputy Director of the IBB
Transportation Planning Department, presented Istanbul’s sustainable transport
vision specifically in the context of 65+ age group. She explained how the SKUp
approach responds to demographic shifts in the city. In the afternoon, the
general framework of SKUp and pilot projects implemented in Istanbul were
introduced. The workshop concluded with a forum session where participants
shared their needs and suggestions regarding urban mobility.
The program featured four main sessions: “What is Sustainable
Mobility?”, “What is Istanbul SKUp?”, “Presentation of Pilot Projects”, and
“Forum/Evaluation Session.” Through interactive questions and discussions, the
workshop also aimed to observe how participants' perceptions evolved throughout
the day.
Participants proposed improvements such as simplifying public
information systems, enhancing pedestrian safety, and increasing accessibility
to digital transport tools for older adults.
Contributing to the age-friendly city vision, the workshop provided
valuable insights that will support the communication and awareness strategies
of the SKUp Project going forward.