Health Days 2016

- The International Day of Older Persons is celebrated under the theme "Take a Stand against Ageism" by shedding light on stereotyped pictures and misconceptions about older persons and ageing.
- In 2014, governments around the world adopted a resolution at the Economic and Social Council recognized ageism as "the common source of, the justification for the driving force behind age discrimination." Such discrimination shapes how older persons are treated and perceived by their societies, including in medical settings and workplaces, creating environments that limit older persons’ potential and impact their health and well-being.
- The failure to tackle ageism undermines older persons’ rights and hinders their contributions to social, economic, cultural and political life.
Objectives of the International Day of Older Persons:
- Drawing attention to and challenging negative stereotypes in social and cultural customs and in the media and other different fields which portray misconceptions about older persons and ageing.
- It promotes positive picture about older persons and ageing by means of exchanging good and positive practices which address age discrimination and marginalization of older people and reinforce incorporation of the elderly in the community. It also consolidates positive social, cultural, economic and media practices in dealing with the elderly.
- It calls for improving collection and analysis of negative information about ageing and preparing detailed reports for the purpose of reaching a better understanding of experiences and changing needs and contribution of people as they get older, as well as evidence-based interventions which support participation of the elderly in development and ensures their rights.

    
The Theme of the International Day of Older Persons:

 

 
Official Date:
Internationally: October 1st, 2016
Locally: Dhu al-Hijjah 30th, 1437H

For more information, about Older Persons