Every year, October 1 is observed as the International Day of Older Persons. Declared by UNGA (United Nations General Assembly) in 1991, the prime purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the issues that affect the elderly people, such as elder abuse. Empowering elderly people by promoting their participation in social, economic and political life is one of the ways to reduce inequalities and ensure their inclusiveness. Chronic Diseases, Reason for Declining Mobility of Old People: Study.

This day is similar to the Double Ninth Festival in China as well as National Grandparents Day in the United States and Canada. The theme for International Day of Older Persons 2019 is "The Journey to Age Equality". The theme aims to draw attention to the existence of old age inequality.

Around 700 people in the world are now aged over 60. By 2050, this number will go up to two billion which means that over 20 percent of the world population will be 60 or older. Keeping this in mind, it is important to turn attention to them and find a solution is needed to clear the challenges faced by them.

Purpose to Celebrate International Day of Older Persons

The celebration of this day is done to create awareness and affinity regarding elderly persons well being. You can celebrate IDOP 2019 by spending times with your grandparents, visiting old age homes or volunteering an NGO which is helping them. Kids can also give greeting cards to elderly persons on this day.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2019 07:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).