Resolution 45/106, passed by the United Nations General Assembly on December 14th 1990, declared October 1st to be the International Day of Older Persons. The theme for 2019 is “The Journey to Age Equality.” According to the UN, this theme aims to:
- Draw attention to the existence of old age inequalities and how this often results from a cumulation of disadvantages throughout life, and highlight intergenerational risk of increased old age inequalities.
- Bring awareness to the urgency of coping with existing — and preventing future — old age inequalities.
- Explore societal and structural changes in view of life course policies: life-long learning, proactive and adaptive labor policies, social protection and universal health coverage.
- Reflect on best practices, lessons and progress on the journey to ending older age inequalities and changing negative narratives and stereotypes involving “old age.”
There are currently around 700 million people over the age of 60 around the world. It is predicted that by 2050, this figure will rise to 2 billion. In Oregon alone, the number of older adults 65+ will surge to over 1 million by 2030. And this shift in population is permanent, not a passing event.
At Age+, we look to the future. A future where society embraces this shift, by supporting individuals across the lifespan. While there are challenges ahead, we believe that longer life brings with it the potential for personal growth and prolonged ability to contribute to families and communities. Let’s work together to make this “longevity bonus” count.
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