International Day of Older Persons

In recognition of International Day of Older Persons today (Saturday 1 October), the New South Wales Government is encouraging people across the state to consider how they can combat harmful stereotypes that can inhibit older people from fully engaging in society.

International Day of Older Persons was established by the United Nations in 1990 and aims to raise awareness of the opportunities and challenges faced by older people, and advocate for a more inclusive society for people of all ages.

Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said each of the 1.9 million seniors across NSW has made and continues to make meaningful contributions to the state.

“Seniors are such a vital part of our community fabric. It is therefore important that we actively work to combat harmful stereotypes, such as ageism, that prevent some seniors from being able to engage with the world they have played a significant role in building,” Mr Coure said.

“This means making sure seniors do not face social isolation, and ensuring that they are able to continue working, using services, participating in activities and attending events.”

The theme for this year’s International Day of Older Persons is The Resilience and Contributions of Older Women.

“The NSW Government is proud to work with a number of organisations that champion this theme, including the Older Women’s Network, Seniors Rights Service, Council on the Ageing, Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association, and the Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing,” Mr Coure said.

“Each of these groups, along with many others, help advocate for seniors and work closely with the NSW Government to ensure we keep seniors at the heart of our decision making.”

International Day of Older Persons is held on 1 October yearly and coincides with Probus Day. In addition, Friday, 7 October, is Ageism Awareness Day, which provides a specific opportunity to draw attention to the existence and impacts of ageism in Australia.