SOUTHERN CAPE NEWS - Adults 60 and older are now the fastest-growing segment of our population and the elderly have an increased life expectancy of nearly 30 years when compared to the previous century.
Around the world, the question remains: How do we foster the opportunities presented by these extra years?
It seems that a new stage of life has been created without fully envisioning its purpose, meaning and opportunities.
Very aptly, the theme of the International Day of Older Persons 2017, celebrated on 1 October this year is 'Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older Persons in Society.'
This year's day is about enabling and expanding the contributions of older people in their families, communities and societies at large.
It focuses on the pathways that support full and effective participation in old age, in accordance with old persons' basic rights, needs and preferences.
Stepping into the future with pledges that no one will be left behind, it is starkly evident that the need to tap into the often overlooked and under-appreciated contributions of older persons is not only essential to older persons' well-being but also imperative for sustainable development processes.
Older people have a wealth of experience and talent that should be shared and utilised in our communities.
It would be a tragedy if a younger person had completed a qualification and just sat around at home all day, never applying his/her skills.
Between 2015 and 2030, the number of older persons worldwide is set to increase by 56% - from 901 million to more than 1.4 billion.
By 2030, the number of people aged 60 and above will exceed that of young people aged 15 to 24.
Badisa, a social service organisation aims to develop and provide a continuum of affordable, accessible and high-quality services that address the needs and rights of people as they age.
For more information visit www.badisa.org.za or contact info@badisa.org.za
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