Celebrating International Day of Older Persons

International Day of Older Persons is a special opportunity to celebrate older people and recognise the many ways they contribute to our families, communities, and society.  

This year’s theme, The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives, encourages us to think about how we can create communities and services that support people to live longer lives with dignity, purpose, connection and choice. 

At The Salvation Army Aged Care, older people are at the heart of everything we do. Every resident and client brings their own unique experiences, stories, interests, and wisdom, helping to shape the vibrant communities we share.  

Celebrating older people is about more than recognising milestones and achievements. It is also about the everyday moments that bring meaning and connection – sharing a conversation over a cup of tea, enjoying an activity with friends, spending time with family, celebrating a birthday or simply feeling heard and valued. 

Across our centres and services, employees, volunteers, carers, families and representatives all play an important role in creating these moments. Their care, compassion and commitment help ensure older people have opportunities to stay connected and continue doing the things that matter to them. 

International Day of Older Persons is also a reminder of the importance of listening to older people and ensuring their voices remain central to the decisions that affect them. As people live longer, creating supportive and inclusive communities where older people can continue to contribute and thrive is more important than ever. 

Today is a chance to celebrate the achievements, experiences and contributions of older people, and to recognise the richness they bring to the lives of those around them. 

Happy International Day of Older Persons!