Social Networks and Engagements of Older Turkish Migrants in Germany

During the post-war period, Germany received high numbers of Turkish labour migrants and currently, this first generation has reached the old age. The aim of this study is to evaluate the social networks and engagements of the first-generation older Turkish migrants who aged in Germany using qualitative research by focusing on their social space in the country of immigration since the geographical mobility between the two countries tends to decrease in later life. This research gives insight into 1) Which urban and public spaces they use to socialize and 2) Who they would prefer to socialize with and how frequently. The semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted and recorded in 2016 in Berlin, Cologne and Frankfurt at mosque-related associations (8 interviews), secular/political associations (2), Turkish coffee houses (2), German local coffee shops (2), and participants’ houses (4). The youngest participant was 63 years old while the oldest one was 91. For most of them, besides their family life and neighbourhood groups, visiting a cultural, religious, social or political association or social club was a valuable part of their social networks and engagements. As the result of this research, it can be concluded that: 1) older Turkish migrants sustain former social roles and developing new ones after retirement and child-bearing years, 2) having different social networks outside of their family is important for their well-being through sense of community, instrumental and social support to overcome the unique challenges of ageing as an immigrant.