Ageing with dignity: Strengthening care and support systems for older persons

Population ageing is a global phenomenon that is accelerating. Within the next 30 years, the majority of older persons is expected to reside in developing countries. This demographic shift, where people are living longer, is a human success story, not a crisis. However, it is transforming the caregiving landscape, with care options varying significantly across countries, shaped by the availability of services, cultural norms, and financial conditions.

This year’s International Day of Older Persons commemoration, entitled “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide,” will be held at UN Headquarters in New York on 7 October at 10 a.m. ET, in the ECOSOC Chamber.

The event will feature an array of engaging elements, including an interactive dialogue with a caregiver and a special screening of a clip from 'Caregiving'. This two-hour primetime documentary series, presented by WETA, the flagship PBS station in Washington, D.C., is produced by actor and filmmaker Bradley Cooper, among others. Mr. Cooper brings his personal experience as a caregiver to the project. The full series will be released in the spring of 2025.

The event will also include the launch of Titchfield Group report “Invisible Ageing: Review of Ageing-related Statistics in the Global Sustainable Development Framework,” by the United Kingdom Office for National Statistics; and the launch of a United Nations commemorative stamp set by the United Nations Postal Administration featuring the artist, Christopher Sharp.  

A panel discussion will also be featured, including experts who will explore innovative approaches to strengthen care systems globally, advance geriatrics education, address dementia care challenges, and promote community-based care models. Discussions will cover age-friendly communities and regional perspectives, including low and middle-income countries.

For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/unidop2024  |  #OlderPersonsDay

Photo: © UNHCR