THEMATİC TELEVİSİON BROADCASTİNG İN TURKEY: DEVELOPİNG A TELEVİSİON CHANNEL CONTENT MODEL FOR THE ELDERLY

Abstract

As the global population ages, the need for inclusive media practices that address the unique needs of elderly individuals becomes increasingly urgent. While sectors such as healthcare, architecture, and technology have begun to adapt to the realities of aging societies, media—particularly television broadcasting—remains underdeveloped in this regard. This study addresses this gap by proposing a thematic television channel content model specifically designed for the elderly in Turkey. Combining qualitative and quantitative methods, the research examines both the representation of old age in Turkish media and the television consumption habits of older adults. In the qualitative phase, content analysis was applied to the weekly broadcast schedules of the eight most-watched thematic television channels in Turkey (June 10–16, 2024), revealing a consistent lack of programming tailored to older viewers. In the quantitative phase, a face-to-face survey was conducted with 196 participants aged 60 and above enrolled in the Third Age University at Ege University. Findings indicate that while older individuals watch television extensively—primarily during evening hours—they experience limited satisfaction in areas such as socialization, guidance, and emotional connection. Preferences leaned heavily toward news, documentaries, and domestic drama, whereas infotainment and youth-centric content failed to engage this demographic. Drawing on these results, a new content model is proposed, suggesting time-based programming strategies, content diversity, and thematic balance that reflect the realities and aspirations of older adults. The study makes an original contribution to communication studies and aging research by integrating media design with social inclusion. It also offers policy and practice implications for public broadcasters, private networks, and media regulators seeking to engage the growing demographic of older viewers through sustainable and socially responsible programming.