International Day of Older Persons

Held on 1st October every year

In today's progressive world, a lot has been achieved in science and technology, yet the world lags behind when it comes to Elderly Care. Some of us continue to show gross indifference and disrespect to our elders in our own families and in the society. Today there is an increasing impatience among young men and women and this has forced many elders, willingly or unwillingly, to move or be moved into homes for the aged. By doing so we are committing the heinous crime of forcing out someone who spent his entire lifetime for us. Elders Day which should be celebrated inside our homes with our Elders is being celebrated outside in old age and destitute homes. To reiterate our pledge to continue to do our best to look after our Elders and to check whether we are doing enough or are we making enough amends, International Day of Older Persons had been established. According to Psychiatrists, fulfilling the physical, psychological and emotional needs of elders is the key to keep them healthy and happy. Intentional or unintentional neglect, impudence and maltreatment inside the families and in the society, often lead to high levels of stress among elders. This in turn could lead to various physical ailments, psychological and emotional disorders and even cause death in some cases. The health care and health insurance for senior citizens are the main areas of concern. There is a huge void that needs to be fast filled up as far as the standards of health care and the rising health insurance costs for elders.

On December 14, 1990, the UN General Assembly made October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons, following up on initiatives such as the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, which was adopted by the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing and endorsed later that year by the assembly. The International Day of Older Persons was observed for the first time throughout the world on October 1, 1991. In 1991 the UN General Assembly adopted the United Nations Principles for Older Persons. In 2002 the second World Assembly on Ageing adopted the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing to respond to the opportunities and challenges of population ageing in the 21st century and to promote the development of a society for all ages. The United Nations' (UN) International Day of Older Persons is celebrated annually on October 1 to recognize the contributions of older persons and to examine issues that affect their lives. The World Health Organization (WHO), which is the UN’s directing and coordinating authority for health related issues, and other groups have been actively involved in promoting public awareness and attention on the International Day of Older Persons. Discussions are centered on topics such as: ageing populations and the provision of adequate healthcare for aged persons; volunteer work; social care; and ways to be more inclusive of older persons in the workforce.

International Day of Older Persons is a special day for older persons or senior citizens all over the world. International Day of Older Persons is an ocassion where in special attention and focus on Eldelry Care is highlighted. Traditionally, this day is held to honor the elders, give gifts, talk and spend quality time with them. In many countries, politicians make speeches, particularly those responsible for government departments that focus on senior citizens, at this time of the year. Some radios, televisions or newspapers publish interviews with senior citizens on various issues such as achievements they made to create a better society. Other activities surrounding this day include - displays of promotional material on the International Day of Older Persons in schools, tertiary institutions, office buildings and public notice boards;  media announcements on the day and activities that promote older persons; and inter-generational cooperation on voluntary activities focused on the environment, health, education or community services, senior citizens stage talent show, rallies held by the elders to highlight their problems and submit petitions to the authorities concerned for alleviation of their difficulties. 

Symbols - The WHO logo is often seen on promotional material for the International Day of Older Persons. The logo is often featured in the color white on a mid-blue background. It shows a stereographic projection of the earth centered on the North Pole under a serpent coiled around a staff. Two ears of wheat “cradle” the image. The projection symbolizes the global nature of the organization, while the serpent and staff are known to symbolize medical help and knowledge. Images of older people from different cultures and backgrounds around the world have been also used in UN promotional tools for the International Day of Older Persons.

Holiday Status - It is not a Public Holiday

Alternate Name - United Nations' (UN) International Day of Older Persons, World Elders Day?