Dr Matiur Rahman

The International Day of Older Persons is a global observance celebrated on October 1st each year. It provides an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the contributions of older persons to society while also highlighting the unique challenges they face.

In 2023, the theme of the International Day of Older Persons is "Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons: Across Generations." This theme underscores the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of older individuals and fostering intergenerational solidarity to build a more inclusive and equitable world.

Around the world, populations are ageing at an unprecedented rate. According to the United Nations, the number of people aged 60 and above is expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050, nearly doubling the figure from 2021. This demographic shift brings with it both opportunities and challenges.

The number of people aged 65 years or older worldwide is projected to more than double, rising from 761 million in 2021 to 1.6 billion in 2050. The number of people aged 80 years or older is growing even faster. Population ageing is an irreversible global trend. In 2021, 1 in 10 people worldwide were aged 65 or above. In 2050, this age group is projected to account for 1 in 6 people globally.

In Bangladesh people aged 60 years and above are considered senior citizens and their number is 9.28% of the total population (more than 2.5 crore). There are 1.53 crore people aged 65 or above in the country currently, i.e. 5.88% of the total population.

While longer life expectancy is a testament to advancements in healthcare and living conditions, it also places pressure on societies and governments to adapt and ensure the well-being of older persons. The International Day of Older Persons serves as a platform to address these issues and reaffirm the principles laid out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948, remains a cornerstone of the world's commitment to human rights. Its principles of equality, dignity, and freedom apply to people of all ages, including older persons. As we celebrate this year's International Day of Older Persons, it is essential to reflect on how we can better uphold these principles for older members of our global community.

Active ageing is a fundamental aspect of fulfilling the promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for older persons. Active ageing is not merely about living longer; it is about living a fulfilling life, maintaining one's physical and mental health, and contributing to society.

Governments and communities must invest in policies and programs that support older individuals in remaining active and engaged. This includes access to healthcare, lifelong learning opportunities, and social inclusion. By recognizing and valuing the skills and experiences of older persons, societies can harness their potential for the benefit of all generations.

Ageism, the discrimination and stereotyping of individuals based on their age, remains a pervasive issue. It undermines the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly those related to equality and non-discrimination. On this International Day of Older Persons, it is crucial to acknowledge the harmful effects of ageism and work towards a more inclusive society.

Fighting ageism requires a multi-faceted approach, involving education, media, and legislation. Older persons should not be treated as a homogeneous group; their diversity in experiences, abilities, and needs should be recognized and respected. By challenging stereotypes and prejudices, we can build a society that values the contributions of all its members, regardless of age.

Elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, financial, or neglect, remains a deeply concerning issue that violates the rights and dignity of older persons. This International Day of Older Persons serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevalence of elder abuse and the importance of preventing and addressing it.

Governments, communities, and individuals must be vigilant in protecting older persons from abuse and exploitation. This involves enacting and enforcing laws against elder abuse, providing support services for victims, and promoting respectful and caring attitudes towards older individuals.

The theme for this year's International Day of Older Persons, "Across Generations," underscores the importance of intergenerational solidarity. Building bridges between generations benefits society as a whole. Older persons have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share, while younger generations offer fresh perspectives and innovation.

Efforts should be made to foster intergenerational connections through initiatives like mentorship programs, community activities, and educational collaborations. These interactions not only combat social isolation among older persons but also promote understanding and empathy between generations.

Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right for people of all ages. As individuals age, their healthcare needs may increase, making it essential to ensure that healthcare systems are equipped to meet these demands. Adequate healthcare services, including preventive care and geriatric care, should be accessible and affordable for older persons.

In addition to healthcare, long-term care options, such as nursing homes and home-based care, are crucial for those who require assistance with daily living. Governments and communities should work to expand and improve long-term care services, promoting dignity and autonomy for older individuals.

The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for older persons to stay connected, access information, and engage with society. Technology can play a vital role in reducing social isolation and enabling older individuals to lead independent lives.

Governments, technology companies, and civil society should work together to bridge the digital divide among older persons. By providing training, affordable devices, and accessible online services, we can ensure that older individuals are not left behind in the digital era.

Creating age-friendly communities is essential for fulfilling the promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for older persons. Age-friendly communities are designed to accommodate the needs and preferences of older residents, promoting active and healthy ageing.

Such communities feature accessible infrastructure, public transportation, and housing options that cater to the changing needs of older individuals. Local governments and urban planners should prioritize age-friendly policies and design principles to create inclusive environments for all ages.

As we celebrate the International Day of Older Persons in 2023, let us recommit to upholding the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for older individuals. The changing demographic landscape underscores the urgency of addressing the unique challenges faced by older persons, from ageism and elder abuse to access to healthcare and social inclusion.

Fulfilling the promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for older persons is not only a matter of justice; it is an investment in the well-being and prosperity of societies worldwide. By working together across generations, we can create a world where older individuals are respected, valued, and enabled to lead fulfilling lives, contributing their wisdom and experience for the betterment of all.

The writer is a researcher and development worker