34th Annual United Nations International Day of Older Persons (UNIDOP): A Global Commitment to Ageing with Dignity

The 2024 United Nations International Day of Older Persons (UNIDOP) took place on October 7th at the ECOSOC Chamber of the UN headquarters, marking the 34th anniversary of this important global event. Dedicated to the well-being and prosperity of older adults worldwide, the event was a collaboration between the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs and the NGO Committee on Ageing. The event was proudly sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Argentina, UN Stamps, AARP, and M&T Bank.

This year’s theme, “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide,” highlighted the urgent need to build resilient support systems for ageing populations across the globe. Arjanita Elezaj and Christopher Hanway, both members of the International Federation of Settlements and Neighborhood Centers (IFS), served as Chair and Co-Chair, respectively, guiding the three-hour program.

The event featured speakers and panelists from the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, each bringing critical insights into care and support for older adults. Some of the highlights included:

• An exclusive trailer for “Caregiving,” a documentary executive produced by Bradley Cooper, spotlighting the challenges and triumphs of caregiving.
• An interactive dialogue between Wendy Naugle, Editor in Chief of PEOPLE, and Josh Carter, CEO of the VEO-IBD Foundation and grandson of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter.
• A keynote address by Lorraine A. Cortés-Vázquez, Commissioner of the NYC Department for the Aging, emphasizing the role of policy in supporting older adults.

The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and advocacy in ensuring that older persons are treated with dignity and receive the support they need. IFS is honored to have played a key role in this year’s UNIDOP and remains committed to supporting initiatives that uplift and empower older adults globally.

Stay tuned for more updates and ways to get involved in our international efforts to promote care and dignity for older people