International Day of Older Persons
This year’s UN International Day of Older Persons theme—“Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights”—emphasizes aging populations as vital contributors to resilient societies. However, mental health challenges, affecting 1 in 5 older adults globally, often hinder their ability to participate fully. Addressing these issues is not merely a healthcare priority but a societal imperative to harness their potential.
WHO data reveals depression and anxiety impact 7% of seniors worldwide, yet these conditions are treatable with evidence-based interventions. A landmark 2023 JAMA Psychiatry study demonstrated that social engagement—such as community volunteering or group activities—lowers depression risk by 30% among older adults. Similarly, regular physical activity, even 30 minutes of daily walking, improves cognitive function by up to 20%, according to a Lancet Healthy Longevity analysis. Community programs like “Senior Wellness Hubs” in Japan and Brazil have reduced isolation by 40% through mental health workshops and peer support networks. Additionally, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) adapted for seniors has shown a 50% reduction in anxiety symptoms, as per a 2024 meta-analysis in The Lancet.
Integrating mental health into primary geriatric care is a globally endorsed strategy. For instance, Finland’s national program trains healthcare workers to identify early signs of mental health issues in seniors, leading to timely interventions. Additionally, community-driven initiatives—such as intergenerational mentorship programs pairing older adults with youth—foster mutual support while addressing loneliness. Countries like Germany have implemented nationwide mental health screening for seniors during routine medical check-ups, resulting in a 25% increase in early treatment rates. These efforts align with the World Health Assembly’s 2022 resolution, which calls for mental health to be prioritized in aging policies. When older adults receive mental health support, they become active agents in climate action, education, and social cohesion, transforming communities from the ground up.
Investing in mental health for older adults isn’t just ethical—it’s a catalyst for societal progress. By ensuring their well-being, we empower them to lead, innovate, and inspire, embodying the UN’s vision of a world where aging populations drive change. As the world celebrates this year’s International Day of Older Persons, let’s commit to policies that elevate their mental health as a cornerstone of global resilience. Their wisdom and experience, when supported by mental wellness, are indispensable in building a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Assistant Professor at the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences in Tehran, Iran. He earned his Ph.D. in Gerontology with honors in 2017, following his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Rehabilitation Sciences. Dr. Rashedi is an esteemed member of several prestigious organizations, including the Gerontological Society of America (GSA), the International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART), and the American Psychological Association (APA). His research primarily focuses on mental health and psychogeriatrics. Since 2019, Dr. Rashedi has been a Senior Collaborator for the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) at the Institute for Health Metrics Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington in the United States.