Summary of this article
International Day for Older Persons is observed every year on October 1, 2025. This year the theme focuses on older persons driving local and global action. The idea is to encourage family interaction, advocacy for senior rights, spreading awareness against age discrimination, and promoting health and wellness through community engagement
The International Day for Older Persons, observed worldwide on October 1, recognises and celebrates the contributions of senior citizens and also highlights their issues and concerns. Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1990, the day aims to raise awareness and promote the well-being and rights of the elderly. This year’s theme is ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights’. The day is a reminder to recognise and remember their contribution to society.
Here are seven ways to cherish and honour the elderly in the family and outside.
Sharing Time
In today’s hectic life, one can bring enjoyment to the elderly in the family by spending some time with them. One can share time with elderly parents, grandparents and/or great-grandparents, matching the pace of one’s day with theirs. One can also engage in activities where the elderly can participate, such as storytelling, eating together, walking, and so on. The day serves as an occasion to cherish these relationships, while also ensuring that older persons in the family and community do not feel lonely.
Teach Technology Skills
Digital literacy is essential in today's technology-driven and virtually connected world. So, one can help the elderly learn how to use smartphones, social media, and video calling applications to stay in touch with far-flung family members and loved ones. This can also help them in tackling age-related loneliness. This year’s theme of inclusion and well-being through access to modern tools also aligns with this theme.
Advocate For Senior Rights
Many times, the elderly don’t express their concerns or fight for what they want or need. Therefore, vocalising on their behalf and spreading awareness against age-discrimination, running community forums and campaigns for issues, such as healthcare, social security, and legal safeguards can give voice to the elderly.
Celebrate Their Achievements
Conducting local ceremonies or family celebrations to honour the contributions of seniors, by way of caring, employment, or leadership in the community, helps to display their invaluable experiences, as opposed to a stereotype image of older persons being a burden. Such acts affirm the importance of their role in society.
Promote Health And Wellness
Physical activity, nutrition, and health checks are essential elements of preventive care and wellness for he elderly. Wellness camps, physical activity classes, or even consultations from healthcare providers for free screenings on this day can affirm the community's commitment to their health.
Older Persons In Community Action
One can also get the elderly involved in local decision-making forums in volunteering activities or in intergenerational activities. In recognition of the 2025 theme, older persons have been recognised as active agents of change, and supporting their leadership development will build even stronger and inclusive communities.
Create Supportive Environment
One can also consider building age-friendly infrastructure by way of ramps, clear signage, and accessible transport options to promote active ageing, thus making seniors feel they can age without losing independence and quality of life.
