International Day of Older Persons

When is old? I usually think that old people are people older than me, like my mother. I'm reluctantly admitting that I've now been middle-aged for long enough to qualify as an 'older person', although I prefer 'senior' - it sounds better.

 Did you know that today 1 October is the International Day of Older Persons? Its purpose is to recognize the contributions of older persons and to examine issues affecting their (our) lives. 

 This year's theme is Longevity: Shaping the future. The UN Secretary-General has this message for the day:

"Longevity is a public health achievement, not a social or economic liability. On this International Day of Older Persons, let us pledge to ensure the well-being of older persons and to enlist their meaningful participation in society so we can all benefit from their knowledge and ability."
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
World-wide the human population is getting older. Today 1 in 10 people is over 60. It is estimated that by 2050 this will be 1 in 5 and by 2150 it could be 1 in 3. This video celebrates older people and introduces 21st century challenges to be faced with regard to an ageing population. 







Comments

  1. Kathy1 October 2012 at 11:41

    I think of myself a being in late middle-age, Nancy, but of course I'm still older than most of the population. I've never heard of this day, but think it is a good idea.

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    1. Nancy Wallace1 October 2012 at 11:59

      Confession - I've only just heard of it and it generally seems to be off the radar in our area, but some places organize celebrations and special events - so I've discovered.

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  2. Chelliah Laity2 October 2012 at 18:20

    I hadn't heard of this day either. In today's harsh world anyone who isn't able and fit enough to work till they drop is seen as a burden on society sadly so I think the UN is right to point out that ageing is not an economic liability. Not everything needs to be measured in monetary terms.

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    1. Nancy Wallace2 October 2012 at 18:30

      Thanks for commenting Chelliah. There are I think more older people contributing to society as being a burden.

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