International Day for the Elderly
Date: 1 October
International Day for the Elderly is dedicated to honor, respect and care for the world’s elderly. Remember, someday you hope to be included among this group!
In 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated October 1st as the International Day for the Elderly, also known as the “International Day for Older Persons”. The holiday is the result of the UN World Assembly on Aging which was formed in 1982 to explore and tend to the needs of the elderly in the world.
Did you Know?
According to the United Nations, “one of every 10 persons is now 60 years or older. By the year 2050, one of five will be 60 years or older; by 2150, it will be one of three persons”.
Here is an interesting paradox: 7.5% of the population in the developing world is elderly, compared to 18.3% in the developed world. Respective figures for the year 2025 are 11.9% and 23.6%. Not surprising, as the developed countries have better medical care, greater expectancy of life and longevity. But the irony is, since the population of the developing countries is high, even small percentages make greater numbers.
However, the most rapid changes are now seen in some of the developing countries with predicted increases of 200-400% in their elderly populations during the next 30 years, says a WHO report. The day for the older persons was announced. Targets to work with global ageing were set for 2001, which has been designated as the International Year of Older Persons.
WHO further promotes the concept of “active ageing” which indicates how the aged can be active members of society and outlines their rights.
