International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) is a global healthcare event celebrated on the 1st of October every year that emphasises public awareness with respect to challenges and opportunities that are associated with ageing and mobilises community organisations, families and stakeholders to aid older people who are facing the challenges.
On this day, various international and national organisations join together to conduct events, national surveys, social campaigns and other awareness programmes and workshops to create awareness irrespective of the well-being and dignity of older individuals.
Importance of the day
In 2019, there were 70.3 crores people globally who were 65 or older. Over the next three decades (30 years), the global population of older people is expected to more than quadruple, reaching more than 15 crores by 2050.
India is the world's second-largest country, with 7.2 crore people over the age of 60. The number of old people aged 80 and older is expected to increase from 54 lakhs in 2021 to 3.2 crore by 2051.
The increase in the number and proportion of the elderly will have a direct impact on the need for health care, income, and social security payments.
The increase in the number of the elderly could prompt abuse towards the elderly. Its prevalence is seen increasing globally (10% of the elderly experience some form of abuse). In these times of neglect and abuse, it is important to remind the public about elderly care and to safeguard their rights.
International Day of Older Persons 2023 Theme
This year 2023, the International Day of Older Persons Theme is "Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons: Across Generations".