International Day for the Elderly

International Day for the Elderly

International Day for the Elderly takes place each year on October 1 and it is dedicated to caring for, respecting and honoring the elderly people of the world. Never forget that one day you will be one of the people in this group. October 1 was designated as the International Day for the Elderly by the United Nations General Assembly 24 years ago, back in 1990. The day, also referred to as International Day for Older Persons, was a consequence of the UN World Assembly on Aging. Formed 32 years ago, back in 1982, the aim of the group was to explore and deal with the needs of the world’s aging population.

One of every ten persons is now 60 years or older, says the United Nations. By the year 2050, one of five will be 60 years or older; by 2150 it will be one of three persons, they said.

You can help to celebrate International Day for the Elderly by raising awareness about the issues that affect older people, such as elder abuse and senescence.

The day is also the time to appreciate and celebrate the contributions that have been made to society by older people. The holiday bears some similarities to National Grandparents Day, which is celebrated in the United States and Canada; Respect for the Aged Day, which is celebrated in Japan; and the Double Ninth Festival, which is celebrated in China.

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