Let us pledge to ensure the well-being of older persons: UN chief

01 October, 2012

The International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) is being observed today in many countries today. The UN views older people as a new power for development in this 'fast ageing world' undergoing 'a demographic revolution'. It was in 1990 that the United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated October 1 to be the IDOP as a global observance.

"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,” said UN chief Ban Ki-moon on the occasion of IDOP-2012.

This year IDOP is being celebrated with the theme, "Longevity: Shaping the Future" that stresses on healthy behaviours throughout life to help older men and women lead full and productive lives and be a resource for their families and communities.

While signifying the need for respect for older person in modern society WHO stated, "Older people will increasingly play a critical role - through volunteer work, transmitting experience and knowledge, helping their families with caring responsibilities and increasing their participation in the paid labour force."

Recognising the contributions of old persons to development WHO insists a proper system of care to ensure that older persons enjoy adequate levels of health, for which appropriate policies need to be put in place.