2025’s International Day of Older Persons: Advocating for Healthy and Inclusive Aging – Celebrated on October 1 every year, the International Day of Older Persons is a significant global event dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges and opportunities of aging. This day serves to honor the contributions older persons make to society and highlights the importance of creating a world where they can live with dignity, independence, and inclusion.
Global Recognition and the United Nations Involvement – The United Nations General Assembly designated October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons in Resolution 45/106, adopted on December 14, 1990. The first observance of this day took place on October 1, 1991, with the United Nations Programme on Ageing taking a leading role in the promotion of awareness and advocacy for older persons’ rights.
The goals of the International Day of Older Persons include:
Raising Awareness of the significance of population aging and its societal impacts, including healthcare, economics, and social inclusion.
Promoting the Rights of Older Persons, encouraging governments and organizations to create policies that ensure older people’s participation in society and protect their rights.
Fostering Intergenerational Collaboration by emphasizing solidarity between generations and working toward sustainable development goals that benefit all ages.
Annual Themes and Their Impact
Since its inception, the International Day of Older Persons has focused on different aspects of aging through various annual themes. These themes have explored key issues such as age equality, the impact of pandemics on older persons, and promoting digital equity. In 2025, the theme will continue to build on previous efforts by focusing on the role older persons play in creating resilient, sustainable societies.
Connection to the Sustainable Development Goals
The International Day of Older Persons aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Promoting health and longevity through access to healthcare for older persons.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – Reducing age-based discrimination and ensuring older persons can contribute fully to their communities.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Encouraging age-friendly environments that support the independence and well-being of older persons.
Advocating for Healthy Aging and Inclusion
The world’s population is aging rapidly. By 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older is expected to double, making it crucial to implement policies that support healthy aging. Ensuring that older persons have access to healthcare, social protection, and opportunities to engage in society is not only a matter of rights but also essential for sustainable development.
Engagement and Global Solidarity
Celebrating the International Day of Older Persons is a commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of older persons globally. It provides an opportunity for all sectors of society—governments, civil organizations, and individuals—to come together and take action in creating a world that values the contributions of older generations and ensures their dignity and well-being.
On October 1, 2025, join the international community in recognizing the invaluable role of older persons and advocating for policies that promote healthy, inclusive, and age-friendly environments.
