Each year on 1 October, the world comes together to recognise the International Day of Older Persons, a moment dedicated to celebrating the contributions of older generations while raising awareness of the challenges they face. This global observance, established by the United Nations in 1990, is a reminder of the value, wisdom and resilience older people bring to our families, communities and societies.
In 2025, the theme is “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.” It reflects the reality that older people are not passive recipients of care or support, but active drivers of progress in health, community resilience, human rights, and financial stability. Their lived experience and knowledge shape the world we live in, and their voices deserve to be heard in decisions that affect all of us.
The number of people aged 65 and above is growing faster than ever before, with projections suggesting that by 2100 more than 2.4 billion people will be in this age group. Those over 80 will represent the fastest growing segment of the population. This shift brings both opportunities and challenges.
Organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have emphasised the importance of universal health coverage, sustainable financing for long-term care, and ensuring dignity and inclusion for older people. Recent policy developments, including a 2025 resolution by the UN Human Rights Council to draft a legally binding instrument to protect the rights of older persons, highlight growing international momentum to safeguard older people’s wellbeing and human rights.
The UK Focus: Building Belonging
In the UK, the 2025 theme also celebrates “Building Belonging: Celebrating the Power of Our Social Connections.” Social connection is vital at every stage of life, but especially in later years when factors such as retirement or changing health can affect relationships. From a friendly greeting on the street to volunteering or community events, these interactions help build inclusive and supportive communities where everyone feels valued.
Older people play a crucial role in creating this sense of belonging. As carers, volunteers, workers, neighbours, and mentors, they knit together the social fabric that binds communities. Their everyday acts of kindness and wisdom remind us of the importance of connection across generations.
How We Can Honour Older Persons
Marking the International Day of Older Persons is about more than awareness, it is about action. Simple acts, such as spending quality time with older family members, listening to their stories, or sharing a meal, can bring joy and reduce feelings of isolation. Supporting digital literacy helps older people connect with loved ones and access services, while advocating for their rights ensures they are treated with dignity and fairness.
Celebrating achievements and recognising the contributions of older people to our communities, whether through local ceremonies or personal gestures of gratitude, affirms their importance in society. Promoting health, wellness and age-friendly environments ensures independence and inclusion, while encouraging older persons to take part in decision-making acknowledges their role as leaders and agents of change.
The International Day of Older Persons 2025 is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where everyone can age with dignity, independence and joy. This October, let us celebrate our older citizens, neighbours, parents, grandparents and friends, and take meaningful steps to honour them in ways that will strengthen both our communities and ourselves.