October 1 is observed worldwide as the International Day of Older Persons, as proclaimed by the UN General Assembly. The decision to annually observe the International Day of Older Persons in Ukraine and to create appropriate conditions for the social protection of retirees, people with disabilities, and single citizens who are unable to work was approved by Resolution No. 1066 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated September 26, 1997.
Today, the UN addresses the issue of older adults not only in the context of social protection. The focus is on creating conditions under which older adults can maintain their independence, participate in society, receive necessary care, realize their potential, and live with dignity. It is precisely these principles—independence, participation, care, self-fulfillment, and dignity—that are defined in the UN Principles for Older Persons, adopted by the General Assembly as far back as 1991.
The theme of the International Day of Older Persons in 2026 is “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.” The UN emphasizes that increased life expectancy requires corresponding changes in health care, social protection, housing, employment, and lifelong education systems.
The International Day of Older Persons is an opportunity to discuss not only the needs of older adults but also the creation of conditions in which people remain full members of society regardless of age.