Geriatric care in traditional communities of Central Asia

What is it about?

This article looks at how older people live and age in traditional communities of Central Asia, especially in Uzbekistan. In these cultures, elders are highly respected and usually live together with their families, which gives them strong emotional and social support. However, traditions can also create some health challenges. Family meals are often rich in meat and fat, while physical activity is low. Many older adults depend completely on their children for care, which sometimes limits their independence and access to professional help. The paper compares these patterns with similar situations in African societies and suggests community-based programs that teach families how to support healthy ageing — through balanced diet, daily movement, and shared understanding between generations.

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Photo by Joel Heard on Unsplash

Photo by Joel Heard on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Many countries, including Uzbekistan, are becoming older, and health systems are not yet ready to meet the needs of older people. In traditional societies, family plays a central role in caring for elders — which is both a strength and a challenge. By understanding how culture influences ageing, we can design better programs that respect traditions while promoting healthy lifestyles. This work shows that combining medical care with family and community support can help older adults stay independent, active, and valued members of society.

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