The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives
1 October 2026
International Day of Older Persons is observed each year on 1 October to recognise the contributions older people make to families, communities and society, while raising awareness of the opportunities and challenges associated with an ageing population. The United Nations General Assembly established the day in 1990, following earlier international work on ageing including the 1982 Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing. As people around the world live longer, supporting healthy ageing has become an increasingly important global priority. By 2030, around one in six people worldwide is expected to be aged 60 years or over, rising to approximately 2.1 billion people by 2050.
Supporting Healthy and Fulfilling Longer Lives
The 2026 theme, The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives, encourages communities, governments and organisations to consider how health, care and social systems can better support people throughout longer lives. International Day of Older Persons is marked through educational events, community activities, seminars, public discussions, health promotion initiatives and campaigns that highlight healthy ageing, social inclusion, age-friendly communities and the rights and wellbeing of older people. It also provides an opportunity to challenge ageism and encourage greater participation and connection across generations.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to support International Day of Older Persons. Take time to connect with older family members, friends, neighbours or members of your community, and listen to their experiences and perspectives. Communities and workplaces can organise social activities, educational sessions or intergenerational events that encourage connection and inclusion. You can also learn more about healthy ageing, challenge age-based stereotypes and share reliable information about the importance of creating environments where people can remain healthy, independent and involved as they age.
Celebrate Longer Lives
Healthy ageing benefits individuals, families and communities. International Day of Older Persons is an opportunity to recognise the value and experience of older people while considering how we can create healthier, more inclusive and supportive communities for people of every age.
Help create communities where people can live longer, healthier and more connected lives.
Learn More & Access Resources
Explore trusted resources for more information about healthy ageing, older people and supportive communities.
