Shymkent is continuing systematic efforts to strengthen the health of older residents and promote an active lifestyle. One of the key social initiatives in this area is the Active Longevity Centre, which helps retirees maintain their health while remaining actively involved in community life.
The Active Longevity Centre, operated under the Shymkent City Department of Employment and Social Protection, currently has four branches. Around 800 retirees receive various services at the centre every day. Its key feature is a comprehensive approach that combines meaningful leisure activities with programmes aimed at improving physical and emotional well-being.
The centre offers sports activities, dancing, music, occupational therapy, yoga and language classes. Retirees can also enjoy herbal teas. These activities not only encourage physical activity but also provide opportunities to socialize, learn new skills and spend their free time productively.
Every retiree visiting the centre first undergoes a medical check-up. Specialists measure blood pressure and body temperature and monitor the visitor’s overall health condition. Following the medical assessment, participants choose activities and services according to their health status and individual needs.
Regular monitoring has shown positive changes in several chronic health conditions. For example, an improvement in health status was recorded among 57.8% of participants with chronic bronchitis. Among retirees with arterial hypertension, positive changes were observed in 35% of cases, while the figure for arthritis stood at 35.7%.
One of the most notable results has been the positive trend in addressing excess weight. The current figure has reached 51%, compared with 31% in 2025. This means the positive-dynamics indicator increased by 20 percentage points in just one year.
These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the centre’s comprehensive approach, which includes physical exercise, yoga, swimming and healthy nutrition programmes. An active lifestyle is becoming an increasingly important factor in maintaining health and quality of life among older people.