On 1 October, International Day of Older Persons, older people around the world took action to campaign for their rights. They called on their governments to take action on the issues that are important to them.
This year 62 countries took part in the Age Demands Action global campaign. We received some fantastic photos and updates from our campaign partners. Below is a snapshot of campaign activities that have taken place so far.
Philippines
400 older people joined the walk for life organised every year by our partner COSE in the Philippines and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). They shared some great news with us – DSWD have agreed to have a national dialogue on social pensions on 28 October!
Indonesia
Our affiliate in Indonesia, Yayasan Emong Lansia (YEL) organised a march with Alzheimer Indonesia. Around 1,000 campaigners wore purple T-shirts printed with the slogan ‘Jangan Maklum Dengan Pikun’ (‘Don’t just accept dementia’).
They marched through Jakarta and called on the government to respond to the needs of older Indonesians. And they got an amazing response! The Jakarta Government has promised to make Jakarta an age-friendly city, starting with accessibility. Government plans also include a city activity centre and parks where senior citizens can meet, socialise and exercise.
Cambodia
For ADA Global a delegation from older people’s associations and federations met with the Provincial Governor of Battambang. They discussed issues facing older people in Cambodia and stressed the urgent need for a universal social pension scheme.
Zimbabwe
The National Age Network of Zimbabwe oraganised a march through the capital, Harare. Older men and women stopped traffic as they walked and sang songs to raise awareness about older people’s rights and the ADA campaign.
They met with a government representatives and demanded better policies on healthcare and pensions for older people. The Councillor promised to take the issues raised directly to the Mayor.
Kyrgyzstan
Older people in Kyrgyzstan took part in a round-table discussion with government officials. They asked them to develop better geriatric care services, increase pension payments and improve health care for older people.