1 October marks the United Nations Day of Older Persons.
This day started back in 1990 to respond to the opportunities and challenges of ageing in the 21st century and to promote the development of a society for all ages. The United Nations tell us that in recent decades the composition of the world population has changed dramatically. With life expectancy rising worldwide from 46 to 68 years between 1950 and 2010.
In 2019, there were 703 million people aged 65 or over in the world, with the region of Eastern and South-Eastern Asia was home to the largest number of older persons (261 million), followed by Europe and Northern America (over 200 million). Over the next three decades, it is projected that the number of older persons worldwide will more than double, reaching more than 1.5 billion persons in 2050. All regions will see an increase in the size of the older population between 2019 and 2050. Read more on the United Nations
Watch an inspiring video to change the way you think about age! With a group of centenarians answering the questions - sharing their thoughts including this inspiring quote:
'People have to learn to just accept ageing, and don't put no limit on it like I'm too old for this, I'm too old for that, I can say that everyday but I don't. If I have something to do, I do whatever part of it I can do, and the rest I take a nap, and wake up and do more later' Ida Keeling, 100
What a fantastic video from some inspiring centenarians!
Read more about the World Health organisation Decade of Healthy Ageing on the World Health Organisation .
Watch leaders from intergovernmental organisations, civil society, and academia come together to highlight the significance of the Decade of Healthy Ageing and the importance of working together to improve the lives of older people, their families, and communities for a more sustainable future for us all.
Reviewed 21 November 2022