Emeklilikte Geleneksel Bir Durak: Kahvehaneler ve Emekli Yaşam

A Traditional Stop in Retirement: Coffeehouses and Retired Life

Abstract: With the decline in birth rates and the increase in life expectancy in Turkey, the proportion of the population aged 65 and over is rapidly rising. This demographic shift results in an increase in the number of retirees and a decrease in the working population. Retirement is considered one of the most significant changes in an individual's life and marks the beginning of old age. During this period, the importance of social relationships becomes increasingly pronounced, and coffeehouses emerge as traditional spaces in Turkish culture that fulfill this need. This study aims to examine the reasons why retirees choose coffeehouses, the relationships they establish in these spaces, and the impact of these relationships on their quality of life, all within the framework of the “life course” approach. By deeply exploring the experiences of retirees in coffeehouses, which have become an indispensable part of their daily routines, the study seeks to bring a new perspective to the literature on this topic. A phenomenological design was employed in this study, adhering to qualitative research methods. In-depth interviews were conducted with 16 retirees who are regulars at coffeehouses and four coffeehouse owners in Trabzon. The data obtained from the participants—both the retirees who frequent coffeehouses and the coffeehouse owners—were first analyzed to present the socio-demographic profiles of the participants, their post-retirement life trajectories, and their experiences in coffeehouses. This was followed by an analysis of the coffeehouse owners' general observations and their assessments regarding the retirees who visit their establishments. In the conclusion section of the study, the findings were summarized, highlighting that the time retirees spend in coffeehouses can enhance their quality of life, strengthen their social interactions, and contribute to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Based on these findings, recommendations were provided.