International Day of Older Persons 2004

Observed worldwide on 1 October, this UN day recognises older people's rights, knowledge, leadership and contributions. It encourages action against age discrimination and for accessible health care, income security and participation.

The International Day of Older Persons was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1990 and is observed each year on 1 October. It developed from a longer international effort to address the opportunities and challenges of ageing. The 1982 World Assembly on Ageing adopted the Vienna International Plan of Action, and in 1991 the United Nations Principles for Older Persons emphasized independence, participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity. A second World Assembly in 2002 produced the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing. The day highlights the knowledge, care, work and community contribution of older people while also drawing attention to age discrimination, income security, health, accessibility and long-term care. As populations live longer, the observance encourages societies to treat ageing not simply as a welfare issue but as a question of rights, inclusion and meaningful participation throughout life.

Affirms dignity, autonomy and participation in later life and opposes ageism rather than portraying older people only as dependent.

Intergenerational conversations, accessible community events, rights-awareness sessions and policy discussions; no religious rites.

UN observance worldwide on 1 October, designated in 1990; themes and local programmes vary by country and year.