UN Day of the Older Person 2024

Celebrating the UN Day of Older Persons: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Ageing with Dignity

As the world marks the UN International Day of Older Persons on October 1st, 2024, we are called to reflect on this year’s theme: “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide”. This theme is not just timely but profoundly significant, as it underscores the growing demand for robust, compassionate, and respectful care systems that cater to the unique needs of older individuals.

The Number of Older People in the World to Double by 2050

The number of people aged 65 years or older worldwide is projected to more than double, rising from 761 million in 2021 to 1.6 billion in 2050 (Source : United Nations).

In Ireland, the number of people aged 65 years and over is estimated to have risen by over 40% between 2013 and 2023, from 569,000 to 806,000, and is expected to double again to 1.6 million by 2051 (Source : CSO).

These clear demographic trends highlight an urgent need for care and support systems for older people.

We in Private HomeCare have long understood that home care is not simply a service; it is a partnership built on trust, respect, and empathy. We are privileged to witness daily the difference that high-quality, personalised care makes in the lives of our clients. We see it in the comfort they take in knowing they are supported at home, in the smiles of families who can rest assured their loved ones are in good hands, and in the unwavering commitment of our carers, whose dedication brings warmth and dignity to the often complex world of ageing.

The Challenges of Aging Populations

Across the world, people are living longer, and while this is a cause for celebration, it also brings challenges. The demand for care is rising, yet the global shortage of care workers remains a critical barrier to meeting this need.

At Private HomeCare, we know firsthand the importance of having skilled and compassionate carers. The role they play cannot be overstated. Every day, they not only provide essential physical support but also emotional comfort, ensuring that older people feel valued, heard, and respected. Our carers are the heartbeat of what we do, and their role must be recognised as both essential and rewarding.

Promoting Person-Centred Care

At the heart of any care system must be the individual – a person with their own history, beliefs, needs, and wishes. The UN’s emphasis on promoting person-centred approaches to care resonates deeply with our values. We believe that care must always respect the dignity and autonomy of the older person, ensuring they remain at the centre of all decisions about their care. This means taking the time to understand each person’s unique circumstances and preferences, and working with them – and their families – to create a care plan that enhances their quality of life.

Dignity in care also extends to protecting the human rights of both care recipients and carers. Every older person has the right to live with respect, and every carer has the right to work in an environment where their contribution is valued. This mutual respect creates a culture of care that benefits everyone involved.

Recognising the Role of Carers

This year’s commemoration also highlights the critical contributions of caregivers. As Managing Director of Private HomeCare, I am continually inspired by the dedication and compassion our carers bring to their roles. Their work is often challenging, yet they approach it with a sense of purpose and humanity that makes a real difference in the lives of the people they care for.

Carers are not just providers of physical assistance; they are companions, listeners, and advocates for the older person’s dignity and wellbeing. It is essential that we continue to recognise their diverse contributions and advocate for policies and practices that support their development, wellbeing, and professional recognition.

Moving Forward Together

The UN Day of Older Persons is an opportunity for us all to reflect on how we can strengthen the care systems that support older people. It is a call to action to governments, organisations, and communities to invest in the future of care. At Private HomeCare, we remain committed to doing our part by providing high-quality, person-centred care that promotes dignity, respect, and independence.

As we look to the future, let us work together to create a world where every person can age with dignity and where care is seen not just as a necessity, but as a fundamental right.

On this important day, let us renew our commitment to strengthening care and support systems, ensuring that older persons everywhere can live their later years with the respect and dignity they so richly deserve.  It is not a day for “lip service”, it is a day for all and particularly for communities and individuals voices to be heard and for legislators to take action.

Elizabeth Nicholson, Founder and Managing Director, Private HomeCare