Healthy ageing highlighted during International Older People’s Day
Today approximately 600 million people worldwide are aged 60 years and over. People are living longer than ever before and the proportion of older people in our society is growing.
Dr Eddie Rooney, Chief Executive of the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: “Today is International Older People’s Day and this is something to be celebrated. Older people have so much to offer society with their knowledge, skills and experiences, however, their views and contribution to society can often be overlooked. Being well and active as we grow older is something we should all aspire to. Feeling valued and of value to friends, family and community is especially important for healthy ageing.
“Almost one third of the population here are over 50 so it is important that people are aware of what they can do to age well, such as, eating healthily and remaining physically active which encourages independence in later life. Regular physical activity keeps the heart and lungs working efficiently, can help maintain a healthy weight and keep muscles and bones strong. We know older people have a critical role to play in our society through their volunteer work, passing on their valuable experience and knowledge, not to mention the vast amount of older people who help their families with caring responsibilities.”
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "Ensuring that our older people are treated with dignity across the Health and Social Care sector is more than just a tick box exercise; it is fundamental to what we do. Dignity means care which supports and promotes, and does not undermine, a person's self-respect.
“Our elderly population must have the same rights to health and social care services as everyone else. Patients of all ages have the right to the best available service, and it is my expectation that there should be no question of discrimination on age or other grounds.
"I am determined to ensure that care for older people improves so that they can live longer and that those extra years are quality years."
Contact PHA Press Office on 028 9031 1611.
International Older People’s Day takes place each year on 1 October and has been observed since 1991.
The PHA works in partnership to with a range of community organisations, networks, statutory services, voluntary and independent organisations to develop a coordinated approach to addressing needs of older people.
Photo caption: Health Minister Michael McGimpsey and Dr Eddie Rooney, Chief Executive of the Public Health Agency serve a cup of tea and biscuits to Donegall Road resident Irene Cowan to celebrate International Older People’s Day today.