Did you know that there’s such a thing as International Older Persons Day? This year, it falls on Tuesday, October 1st.
The theme for this year’s International Older Persons Day is Aging with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide. The message is clear: as the world’s population grows older, we need to ensure the right socio-political frameworks are in place—policies, legislation, and practices that support both caregivers and care receivers. This issue is particularly urgent, given that many of these caregivers are women who are often overlooked and under-supported.
The United Nations Decade of Healthy Aging (2021-2030) is a global recognition of the rapid demographic changes we’re seeing. According to the UN, women make up the majority of both care recipients and caregivers—contributing roughly 70% of informal care hours globally.
Let’s be real—“informal” caregiving often means “unpaid” or “underpaid.” This situation leaves caregiving women in a precarious position, especially when they move into their old age. The social safety nets that should protect them often never considered their contributions, leaving them vulnerable and at risk. These women give their all, yet when it’s their turn to need care, they’re often left without support.
In both the Global North and Global South, much of the focus is on what older people will cost their economies. We hear talk about the strain on labor and financial markets, the increased demand for housing, transportation, and social protections—not to mention the impact on family structures and inter-generational ties. What we don’t hear much less is the value that older people bring to the table.
This is where anti-ageist activists come in. They argue that the conversation needs to shift. Rather than emphasize what older adults cost society, we should focus on ensuring they can continue contributing. We’re talking about inclusion in meaningful employment, mentorship opportunities, and spaces where elders can use their wisdom and experience to benefit their communities and economies.
Framing aging as a battle for resources between generations is just politics by division. Zero-sum thinking only creates competition and hostility, when collaboration and mutual respect are what we need. After all, we’re all going to age—shouldn’t we be working toward systems that support everyone?
So, how will you spend International Older Persons Day? I’ll be hiking Hadrian’s Wall. Why not celebrate aging by proving that the road may be long, but we’re more than up for the journey? Remember, that the conversation about aging isn’t just about what older people cost—it’s about what we bring to the table. It’s about our potential to contribute, mentor, inspire, and, yes, demand systems that support us.
On October 1st, I invite you to engage. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues. Share your story, and listen to theirs. Come walk with me at WonderCrone.com. Let’s change the narrative, one step (or blog) at a time.
Wonderful article!