What is the International Day of Older Persons (October 1)?
The International Day of Older Persons is observed on October 1 each year, following UN General Assembly Resolution 45/106 adopted on December 14, 1990. It is an occasion for the global community to recognize the position, contributions, and legitimate needs of older people in modern society.
The day emerged as many countries began to see the pace of population aging more clearly, bringing challenges in social security, healthcare, employment, and intergenerational relations. October 1 is therefore not merely ceremonial; it is a milestone for governments, organizations, and communities to commit to concrete action.
Origin and formation
International context before 1990
Before the UN resolution, the issue of older persons had been raised in many international forums. Developed countries in Europe, North America, and Japan faced rapidly rising shares of people over 60, while many developing countries also experienced demographic shifts. This drove the need for a common framework to protect rights and improve quality of life for older people.
UN General Assembly Resolution 45/106
On December 14, 1990, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 45/106, officially designating October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. The resolution called on member states to organize activities to raise awareness of the situation of older persons and to encourage policies suited to each country's demographic characteristics.
Related milestones
Alongside the International Day of Older Persons, the UN has adopted several related documents and programs. In 1991, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Principles for Older Persons, covering independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and dignity. In 2002, the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing was adopted in Spain, focusing on development, health, and supportive environments for older people.
Meaning of the International Day of Older Persons
Affirming roles and contributions
Older persons are not only recipients of care; they are sources of knowledge, experience, and stability for families and communities. October 1 reminds us that age does not erase contribution but can transform it into new roles: passing on experience, preserving culture, and participating in social work.
Raising awareness of population aging
Population aging is a global trend. International analyses show that the share of older people is rising in most regions, requiring adjustments in health systems, pensions, housing, and long-term care services. The day is a chance for countries to review policies and for communities to prepare for an older society.
Protecting rights and dignity
A core message is ensuring older persons live safely, free from discrimination, with access to healthcare and a voice in decisions affecting them. This is also emphasized by many international organizations in annual campaigns.
The day in Vietnam
Tradition of respecting the elderly
Vietnam has a tradition of respecting older people, reflected in proverbs, customs, and family life. Therefore, October 1 blends easily with local culture, becoming an occasion for generations to express gratitude and care.
Common activities
On October 1, many localities and organizations in Vietnam carry out activities such as:
- Visiting and giving gifts to older persons, especially those in difficult circumstances.
- Organizing longevity celebrations for elderly people.
- Providing health check-ups, consultations, and free medicine.
- Holding gatherings, cultural exchanges, and seminars on caring for and promoting the role of older persons.
- Communicating rights and policies related to older persons.
Significance in Vietnam's context
Vietnam is undergoing population aging, so the International Day of Older Persons has practical meaning. It is a time to review social security, primary healthcare, community-based care models, and the family's role in caring for older people. It also encourages older persons to continue participating in social activities suited to their health and aspirations.
Common misconceptions
Is it only for those aged 60 and above?
International documents often use 60 or 65 as reference points, but the spirit of the day targets older persons in general and all generations in families. The focus is respect and responsibility, not just a specific age number.
Is it merely a formality?
October 1 is symbolic, but its value lies in concrete action: improving healthcare services, ensuring income, combating discrimination, and creating environments where older people can live healthily and meaningfully. If it stops at ceremony without policies and resources, its meaning diminishes.
Conclusion
The International Day of Older Persons on October 1 originates from UN Resolution 45/106 in 1990, aiming to raise awareness and promote action for older people. In Vietnam, it merges with the tradition of respecting the elderly, becoming an occasion for visits, longevity celebrations, health care, and honoring contributions. Understanding its origin and meaning helps everyone respond more practically, from family to community.
