"Here We All Communicate". How the Elderly in Bishkek Learn Kyrgyz and Master Chat GPT » Gazeta.kg

Unfortunately, elderly people often remain in the shadows of public attention, and their significance is sometimes forgotten. Retirement can make their lives less active, leaving them alone with themselves and limiting social interaction. However, this demographic plays an important role in our society. Loneliness for them becomes not only an emotional problem but also affects their overall health, both psychological and physical.

Where can elderly people find social interaction? About a year ago, a branch of "Active Longevity" was opened in Bishkek at the gerontological center "Ardager," which operates under the Department of Social Development of the city mayor's office. Here, various free activities are offered, such as language courses, yoga, singing, dancing, and even clothing restoration. This branch has attracted the attention of hundreds of elderly citizens, with learning the Kyrgyz language becoming particularly popular. The process is led by the branch's doctor, the director of the NGO "Socium," Batma Estebesova, and social worker Erkinai Kalakulova. The team from Kaktus.media visited the center to learn more about the lives of the participants in "Active Longevity."

Starting Work: Attracting the First Participants

The branch consists of three small rooms, which, although cramped, have become a place for communication and development for elderly people. How did it all begin? A year ago, the rooms were empty, and Bakhtygul Ismailova, then the director of the Department of Social Development, approached Estebesova and Kalakulova with a request to help open courses for elderly citizens.

She shared that she often argued with her husband on various topics until she learned how to use the GPT chat in classes. "Now, if we have a disagreement, I turn to my smart assistant — the GPT chat. And then my husband says, 'You are so smart.' I respond, 'It's all thanks to the GPT chat.' This means our center is also smart because we learn and develop here," she said excitedly. The woman also expressed gratitude to the organizers of the "Active Longevity" branch.

The director of the NGO "Socium" noted: "I see the spark in the eyes of our participants when they come to 'Active Longevity.' Despite the distance and time they spend, they practice qigong, therapeutic exercises, sing, and communicate. It's priceless." According to her, Bishkek lacks large accessible centers where elderly people could receive such services close to home. The opening of such institutions could demonstrate the state's care for elderly citizens.

The branch is located at: Chuy Avenue, 40 (building CSM No. 4, entrance from the west side).