Celebrating International Day of Older Persons 2024: Promoting Dignity and Support for Elderly Worldwide

The International Day of Older Persons is celebrated on October 1st every year, to recognize the contributions and challenges faced by older individuals around the world. This year, the theme is “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide”, as declared by the World Health Organization (WHO).

As the global population continues to age, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and rights of older persons. According to the WHO, there are currently over 1 billion people aged 60 and older, with this number expected to double by 2050. This demographic shift poses significant implications for healthcare, social services, and economic systems.

The theme of this year’s International Day of Older Persons emphasizes the need to ensure that older individuals are able to age with dignity, by strengthening care and support systems. This includes improving access to healthcare, social services, and community support, as well as promoting active and healthy ageing.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by older persons, with many experiencing isolation, limited access to healthcare, and increased risk of severe illness. As we strive to recover from the pandemic, it is essential to prioritize the needs of older individuals and ensure that they are included in recovery efforts.

On this International Day of Older Persons, let us reflect on the importance of supporting and empowering older individuals, so that they can live with dignity and continue to contribute to society. By investing in care and support systems for older persons worldwide, we can create a more inclusive and age-friendly world for all.