The International Day of Older Persons is observed on October 1 each year. It aims to raise awareness of the impact of an ageing population of both genders, and the need to ensure that people can grow old with dignity and continue to participate in society as citizens with full rights. Older people make major contributions to society, through volunteer work, transmitting experience and knowledge, helping their families with caring responsibilities and participating in the paid labour force.
In the next 50 years, the number of older persons will nearly quadruple, growing from about 600 million to almost 2 billion senior citizens. Today, one in every ten is 60 years and older. By 2050, one out of every five will be an older person, and by 2150, one third of the people in the world are expected to be 60 years of age or older. Such a major demographic change presents huge challenges.
The Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH), by celebrating the International Day of Older Persons, seeks to raise people's awareness of the challenges and obstacles associated with aging, and ensure that people can grow old with dignity and continue to participate in society as citizens with full rights, as well as providing high-quality primary health care to help them gain their rights and carry out their duties.
About the International Day of Older Persons 2012:
Theme: “Longevity: Shaping the Future”
It is meant to reiterate the health-associated behaviors of the elderly (of both genders), to ensure that people can grow old with dignity and continue to participate in society as citizens with full rights, and be an inspiring power for their families and communities.
Internationally Approved Date: 1/10/2012
Locally Approved Date: 15/11/1433H
Targeted Groups:
- Older persons of both genders.
- Governmental institutions.
- Civil associations and institutions.
- Individuals and families interested in caring for the elderly.
- Workers in the field of health care and rehabilitation of the elderly.
- Health workers at health centers.
Objectives and General Messages of the International Day of Older Persons:
- Raising awareness of the importance of providing the elderly with the same preventive, curative and rehabilitation services received by the other age groups.
- Enhancing health services and preventive measures against both infectious and non-infectious diseases, in addition to providing technology assistance, and care services in the domain of rehabilitation.
- Training health staff in this field.
- Providing the health facilities necessary for meeting the older persons needs
- Prompting other effective entities, such as non-governmental organizations and families, to support individuals, towards pursuing a healthy lifestyle.
- Fostering cooperation between governmental institutions, families and individuals, with a view to preparing a proper environment for the health, well-being and prosperity of the elderly.
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