International Day of Older Persons: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives
- 01 Okt 2026 16:20 WIB
- Voice of Indonesia
RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – October 1 marks the International Day of Older Persons, an observance established by the United Nations to raise awareness of the lives, rights, and well-being of older people.
In 2026, the International Day of Older Persons carries the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.” The theme highlights the need to adapt various systems to demographic changes and increasing life expectancy.
According to United Nations data, the number of people aged 60 and over reached around 1.2 billion in 2025. The figure is projected to rise to 2.1 billion by 2050, accounting for around 20 percent of the global population.
This demographic shift presents both opportunities and challenges for societies. Longer lives can provide older people with opportunities to continue contributing through their families, communities, workplaces, education, and various social activities.
At the same time, an ageing population requires adjustments across various sectors. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of systems that support healthcare, employment, pensions, housing, and lifelong learning, enabling people to live longer lives with dignity.
The International Day of Older Persons also serves as a reminder of the importance of preventing age-based discrimination and ensuring that older people’s voices are heard in society. Supportive social and physical environments can help older people maintain their independence and participate in everyday life.
Through the observance, the international community is encouraged to develop systems that can respond to changing population age structures. With the right support, longer lives can also provide opportunities to live in good health, with security, dignity, and a continued sense of purpose.
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