Evaluating a healthy ageing centre in Turkiye: a mixed-methods study of clinical needs, service utilization, and psychosocial outcomes

Aims: To evaluate the clinical characteristics, multidisciplinary service utilization, and psychosocial experiences of older adults receiving care from a community-based Healthy Aging Centre (YAŞAM) in Turkiye.Methods: This mixed-methods study included adults aged ≥75 years who received services between August 2023 and August 2025. Quantitative data from 383 participants were analyzed to describe sociodemographics, Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment findings, and patterns of multidisciplinary service use. For the qualitative component, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight purposefully selected participants and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic approach. Results: Participants were predominantly very old adults with multimorbidity, moderate frailty, and partial dependence in daily activities. Dietitian, physiotherapy, psychology, and social work services were used more frequently by individuals with malnutrition risk, IADL dependency, frailty, depressive symptoms, or limited social support. Older age alone (≥80 years) did not predict higher service utilization. Thematic analysis revealed six key themes: satisfaction and gratitude; feelings of safety and support; feeling valued and respected; loneliness and the need for socialization; acceptance of aging; and inner change and self-awareness. Emotional security, accessible support, and respectful communication emerged as core strengths of the model. Conclusion: The YAŞAM model meets both medical and psychosocial needs by providing integrated, community-based geriatric care, reinforcing safety, dignity, and social connectedness. These findings highlight the value of multidisciplinary, community oriented services in supporting functional and emotional well-being in aging populations.