Every year on October 1st, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons. This day serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions, wisdom, and resilience of older individuals in our societies. It's a time to honour their experiences, advocate for their rights, and foster intergenerational solidarity. In this blog, we'll explore why the International Day of Older Persons is important, how it engages learners, and highlight organisations, including The Mandatory Training Group, that offer support and resources for older individuals.

Definitions

• Ageism - Discrimination or prejudice against individuals based on their age, particularly against older persons.
• Intergenerational solidarity - The mutual support and understanding between different age groups, fostering cohesion and collaboration within communities.

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Image by Rawpixel via Envato Elements

Why is the International Day of Older Persons important?

The International Day of Older Persons is crucial for several reasons. It raises awareness about the challenges faced by older individuals, including ageism and social isolation. Celebrating their achievements and experiences, it promotes respect and dignity, combating negative stereotypes associated with ageing. Furthermore, it provides a platform for advocating for policy changes that support the rights and well-being of older people.

Engaging learners

The International Day of Older Persons offers valuable opportunities for learners of all ages to engage with the topic of ageing and intergenerational relationships. Schools, universities, and community organisations can organise educational activities, discussions, and service-learning projects centred around the day. These initiatives not only raise awareness but also promote empathy, understanding, and respect for older individuals.

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Key facts and statistics

• According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the global population of people aged 60 and older is expected to double by 2050, reaching over 2 billion.
• Ageism, discrimination based on age, affects millions of older individuals worldwide, limiting their opportunities for employment, healthcare, and social inclusion.
• Older persons contribute significantly to society through their roles as caregivers, volunteers, mentors, and workers, enriching communities with their knowledge and experience.

Organisations for support

Several organisations offer support and resources for older persons and those who care for them. Age UK provides a wide range of services, including advice, advocacy, and social activities for older individuals across the UK. HelpAge International advocates for the rights of older people globally, working to ensure their inclusion and well-being. Local authorities, government agencies, and community organisations also offer support tailored to the needs of older individuals in their communities. Additionally, The Mandatory Training Group is a leading UK provider of International Day of Older Persons-related content, offering comprehensive solutions to support organisations in promoting the rights and well-being of older individuals.

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Empowering older individuals - Celebrate International Day of Older Persons with us

Join us in celebrating the International Day of Older Persons by advocating for the rights and well-being of older individuals in your community. Volunteer your time, support organisations that provide services for older persons, and explore The Mandatory Training Group's International Day of Older Persons-related solutions to enhance your organisation's efforts in promoting the dignity and rights of older individuals. Together, we can create a more inclusive and age-friendly world for generations to come.

Recommendations

As we celebrate the International Day of Older Persons, let's commit to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and support for older individuals. Take the time to listen to their stories, learn from their experiences, and advocate for policies that promote their rights and well-being. Consider volunteering or supporting organisations that work to empower and uplift older people in your community.

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Conclusion

The International Day of Older Persons is a time to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of older individuals to our communities and societies. By engaging learners and promoting intergenerational solidarity, we can build a future where people of all ages are valued, respected, and empowered to live fulfilling lives. Let's work together to ensure that every older person has the support and resources they need to thrive.