International Day of Older Persons: How Older Adults Are Shaping Our Communities

Key Takeaways

A day of recognition: International Day of Older Persons, observed every Oct. 1, celebrates the contributions older adults make to society.
Aging is changing: Older adults today are staying active as mentors, volunteers, and community leaders well beyond traditional retirement age.
Communities benefit from inclusion: Neighborhoods that combat ageism and welcome older adults’ participation tend to be stronger and more connected.
Everyone can take part: Simple actions like reaching out to an older neighbor or volunteering with a local organization help build age-friendly communities.

What Is International Day of Older Persons?

The International Day of Older Persons started in 1990, when the United Nations set aside Oct. 1 to honor the contributions older adults make to society. You might also hear it called the Older Persons Day or International Elderly Day, but the message is the same no matter the name.

According to the World Health Organization, the global population aged 60 and older is projected to grow from 1 billion in 2020 to 1.4 billion by 2030. That’s a lot of experience, wisdom, and energy shaping the world around us. This day is a chance to celebrate that, and to think about how our own neighborhoods can better support connection across generations.

The Changing Face of Aging: Older Adults as Community Builders

Aging doesn’t look like it used to. Older adults today are running businesses, mentoring younger generations, and staying active in local causes well past traditional retirement age.

The data backs this up. In AmeriCorps’ most recent Civic Engagement and Volunteering research, baby boomers had the highest informal helping rate of any generation, with 62.2% pitching in to support neighbors through everyday acts like running errands or lending a hand. That kind of steady, local involvement is exactly what keeps communities connected.

This shift matters. When we picture aging as decline instead of contribution, we miss out on what older adults bring to the table every single day. Communities that recognize this tend to be stronger, more connected, and more resilient overall.

Ways Older Adults Are Strengthening Neighborhoods and Local Life

Older adults show up for their communities in ways that don’t always make headlines. Here’s a look at just a few:

Sharing knowledge: Older adults often mentor younger neighbors, coworkers, or family members, passing down skills that took a lifetime to build.
Staying civically engaged: Many older adults vote, attend town halls, and serve on local boards, helping shape decisions that affect everyone.
Volunteering their time: Older adults frequently support food banks, schools, libraries, hospitals, and local nonprofits, helping organizations serve their communities more effectively.
Caring for others: It’s common for older adults to care for spouses, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends, offering practical support that strengthens families and communities alike.
Supporting local businesses: Many older adults shop, dine, and spend consistently at local businesses, helping keep neighborhood economies stable and thriving.

These contributions are easy to overlook, but they make communities stronger every day. Recognizing them is one way to challenge ageism and replace outdated stereotypes with a more accurate picture of what aging looks like today.

How You Can Get Involved This October

You don’t have to wait for a special day to make a difference, but Oct. 1 is a great reminder to start. Reach out to an older neighbor. Ask a parent or grandparent about their story. Support local programs that help older adults thrive.

If you’re looking for a more hands-on way to help, consider volunteering your time with an organization that serves older adults. Businesses can get involved too. Learn more about why corporate volunteering matters for building stronger, more connected communities.

Building age-friendly communities starts with recognizing the value older adults bring every day. This October, find one meaningful way to celebrate their contributions and help create a more connected community.

About AllThrive 365

Established in 1974, AllThrive 365 provides integrated, customized care in the Phoenix area for those who need it. We offer a wide range of home- and community-based services, including:

These programs enable Arizonans of all backgrounds to age with confidence. If you or someone you know is struggling to have their needs met, don’t hesitate to contact us to find out how we can help. And, if possible, consider donating or volunteering your time to our mission. We can’t wait to work with you!

AllThrive 365 has Expanded!