Turkey Calls A Lockdown For Sick And Elderly Expats And Residents

Turkey hits out at elderly expats with special rules for those over 65.

Having already introduced home confinement measures and a coronavirus curfew, Turkey now has elderly expats and those with chronic illnesses in its sights. Last Sunday, the Turkish government curtailed all outdoor activities for citizens and expats over the age of 65 as well as for those with chronic illnesses, citing the fact that these two groups are more at risk of developing the serious complications of coronavirus infection.

The demand that all elderly or chronically sick residents and expats should stay in their homes came as a shock to many, especially as it gave those affected no time to stock up on necessities such as food and medication. As a result, many have viable questions as to how they can continue without help, especially if they’re suffering from illnesses including liver or kidney disease, cardiovascular issues, chronic pulmonary disease, asthma or hypertension. Even worse, reports of police intervention against those still on the streets caused fear as well as confusion.

Shopping, banking and visiting a doctor are major concerns for those affected by the new rules, with the government now setting up telephone helplines manned by support groups across the country. District governors are setting up the groups as well as assistants and vehicles for those in dire need of practical help. Those on regular prescriptions don’t now need to visit their doctors, as necessary medication can be collected by relatives or friends. Banks are being instructed to set up guidelines for housebound elderly expats, with customer service operators being instructed on how to help.

Expat groups are now getting together across the country to provide back-up services for housebound seniors, and relevant Facebook pages are now being opened. The entire help system may take several weeks to be up and running successfully, but everything is in place to ensure older expats and residents confined at home have everything they need.