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Each year on 1 October, the world observes the United Nations International Day of Older People to raise awareness about the opportunities and challenges faced by aging populations. The day also encourages communities to take action in addressing the difficulties faced by older people.

UK Theme for 2024: Celebrating the Role of Older Adults in Strengthening Communities

Older people are vital to the health and resilience of our communities. They contribute as workers, carers, volunteers, and community leaders, using their skills and experience to enrich neighbourhoods. Despite these contributions, ageism and societal barriers often prevent older adults from fully participating in these roles.

In addition to helping others, older people benefit personally from involvement in community activities. Volunteering has been shown to improve social connections, boost self-esteem, and provide a sense of purpose. Paid work can enhance financial stability and improve well-being. Yet many older individuals face obstacles that limit their ability to engage as much as they would like.

This year, International Day of Older People emphasises the importance of creating inclusive communities that celebrate and support the contributions of older adults. We all play a role in ensuring our neighbourhoods are great places to grow older, and in enabling older people to make their fullest contributions.

“Older adults are an asset to communities through contributing to the local economy, taking community leadership roles, contributing skills, experience and expertise in a variety of ways, volunteering, offering care of grandchildren, taking part in democratic processes, being active community members, caring for others, making and creating, being active consumers and having full, active lives.”

Chief Medical Officer’s annual report 2023

Marking International Day of Older People 2024

Communities and organisations are encouraged to mark the day. This could involve hosting age-friendly awards to celebrate local older individuals, offering taster sessions that showcase activities available to older people, or organising community events with food and fun to inspire conversations about making communities more age-friendly.

For ideas and inspiration visit the Centre for Ageing Better an organisation seeking to tackle inequalities faced by older people. You can explore how communities marked the day in previous years, find your local Age-friendly Community lead UK Network of Age-friendly, or learn about initiatives like the Age Without Limits Action Day. You can also sign up to the Centre for Ageing Better newsletter.

Further Support and Resources:

Centre for Ageing Better: Centre for Ageing Better | Action today for all our tomorrows

East Sussex County Council: Services for older people

Age UK: Age UK

Age UK East Sussex: Age UK East Sussex | Our Services

Independent Age: About us | Independent Age

University of Sussex Parent and Carer Staff Network: Sussex Parent and Carer Staff Network

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