The United Nations International Day of Older People is a timely reminder of older people's invaluable contribution to society. Celebrated every year on October 1, this day provides an opportunity to recognize the achievements, wisdom and experiences of older people and highlight their problems and challenges.
Older people, the bedrock of society, have spent decades contributing to family, work, culture and civic life. Their experiences and accumulated knowledge serve as a guiding force for younger generations. From mentoring, volunteering and sharing life stories, older people play a vital role in building robust, resilient and compassionate communities. As populations worldwide age, it is more important than ever to recognize older people's positive impact on economic growth and social cohesion. They are caregivers, community leaders and entrepreneurs who not only shape the present but also the future, connecting future generations with the past.
The International Day for Older People is a call to action. Globally, many older people face challenges such as ageism, poverty, limited access to healthcare, and social isolation. Governments, organizations, and communities must work together to ensure that older people are empowered and included in every aspect of society.
The United Nations's importance to population ageing underlines the urgent need for greater inclusion of older people in policy-making processes and emphasizes the importance of promoting age-friendly environments. Ageing with dignity and purpose should be a universal right, supported by strong social systems, health care, and opportunities for lifelong learning.
Cyprus is no exception to the global ageing of the population. The state should commit to building an inclusive future for all ages. Government and institutions must finally recognize that the challenges of aging are common to all generations. It is only through our collective action that we can ensure that society respects and supports individuals throughout their lives. We all have a role to play in this.
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