The International Day of Older Persons, observed annually on 1 October, recognises the valuable contributions of older adults and the importance of fostering systems that uphold their dignity. The 2024 theme, Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide, focuses on developing care frameworks that support the rights and dignity of older persons.

This blog will explore the history of the day, the relevance of this year’s theme, and the role of inclusive, transparent and accessible person-centred care systems in the Australian context of ageing.

A Brief History of the International Day of Older Persons

The International Day of Older Persons was established by the United Nations in 1990 as part of global efforts to address the issues faced by older adults. Its origins can be traced back to earlier initiatives like the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing in 1982, which recognised the growing impact of population ageing and the need for global strategies to integrate older adults into broader development agendas.

Since its inception, the day has highlighted not only the rights and contributions of older adults but also the increasing importance of policies and programs that support their health and well-being. As populations age worldwide, this day remains a key platform for raising awareness about the diverse lived experiences of older persons and advancing policies that uphold their rights and dignity.

Evolving Perspectives on Ageing

Today, ageing is increasingly seen as a phase of life characterised by continued engagement, contribution, and potential. Many older adults remain involved in work, volunteering, caregiving, and other meaningful activities well into later life. However, it is important to recognise that not everyone experiences ageing in the same way. Globally and locally, disparities in healthcare access persist, leaving many older persons without the timely and appropriate care they need.

There is growing recognition that systemic interventions and community support can play a key role in closing these gaps to assist all older persons, whether they require minimal care or extensive support. Inclusive care systems are essential in ensuring that older persons receive safe, culturally appropriate care that respects their rights, autonomy, and values. Technology also has the potential to play an important role, including offering innovative solutions to improve access to care and support.

The 2024 Theme: Ageing with Dignity and Inclusive Care Systems

By 2050, the global population of people aged 65 and over is projected to more than double, and with increasing life expectancy comes a greater focus on ensuring that care is safe, inclusive, and person-centred.

At the heart of this year’s theme is the concept of dignity. Ageing with dignity involves much more than access to services; it requires that older adults have their rights, autonomy, and preferences respected. Person-centred care that enables individuals to make decisions about their lives and care is critical to preserving dignity. The diversity of older populations also necessitates care systems that are culturally and socially safe and appropriate, enabling individuals to maintain autonomy and receive care that aligns with their values, cultural beliefs, needs, and preferences.

The Australian Context: Culturally Responsive and Equitable Care

In Australia, the population of older adults aged 65 years and over is expected to more than double by 2063, with an increasing need for care systems that are equitable, transparent, and responsive to the diverse experiences of ageing. The recent Aged Care Taskforce report (2024) emphasises the importance of improving access to care for all older Australians, regardless of financial means, and ensuring that care frameworks uphold dignity and rights. Recommendations include a stronger focus on consumer protections, equitable co-contributions, and the transparency of aged care funding, with a priority on ensuring safety nets for those with limited means.

Australia’s older population includes people from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities. These groups have unique experiences and care preferences, highlighting the importance of culturally safe and appropriate, person-centred care. Care systems must not only provide quality services but also ensure that older adults have the autonomy to make decisions about their care, in ways that align with their values and cultural beliefs.

The principles of fairness, sustainability, and transparency, as outlined in the Aged Care Taskforce report, call for care systems that are adaptable to changing needs. The goal is to create a system where older adults feel confident that their care is being delivered with integrity and transparency, and that their contributions—whether through public funding or personal means—are being used effectively.

Conclusion

The 2024 International Day of Older Persons highlights the diverse experiences of ageing around the world. The theme Ageing with Dignity calls on global and local communities to develop care frameworks that address these disparities, ensuring every older person can access the care and support they need to live with dignity and respect.

As healthcare and aged care systems continue to evolve, there is an opportunity to create environments where older adults can maintain autonomy, actively participate in their communities, and receive culturally appropriate care that reflects their individual needs and values.

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Wendy Cavenett is a social gerontologist with extensive experience working with older adults in Australia. She holds a Master of Ageing from the University of Melbourne and is currently completing a PhD in Human Computer Interaction, focusing on how emerging technologies support people as they age. With a strong background in research, journalism, and public speaking, she is well-versed in issues related to ageing, and longevity, and advocates for the empowerment and self-determination of older adults through inclusive and person-centred approaches.

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A participant in the UN Global Compact, CourtHeath seeks to raise awareness about the sustainable development goals and the principles of the Global Compact with business and government organisations in Victoria. The elimination of all forms of discrimination in respect to employment and occupation is Principle 6 of the Global Compact. The Global Compact repudiates labour discrimination internationally.

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