As 2025 draws to a close, we celebrate a year shaped by voices and action—including yours—in advancing the rights and human development of older persons. In collaboration with partners, and standing with older persons, Age Knowble contributed to pivotal moments: the historic April decision at the Human Rights Council to begin drafting a UN
Older people living with dementia are often talked about, not with. Decisions about their lives, care, and support are too often made without listening to them or recognising them as rightsholders. As work begins on a UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, this Age With Rights Rally event —convened by Age
Recognizing the Older Person in Social Development Who is the older person in our current narrative of social development? Someone leaning on the support of others? Someone leading the charge? In this photograph, an older woman looks toward the horizon. The lines on her face trace a life shaped by experience, resilience, and care—time
A Global Moment for Inclusive Social Development At a time of profound global transition, the Second World Summit on Social Development sent a clear message: social development must be inclusive, human rights-based, and grounded in solidarity across generations. With more than 14,000 participants from 186 countries, the Summit reflected both the urgency and the
Afraid to go out – No Public Washrooms! “I am afraid to go out to out. There are no public washrooms. I can not control my bladder like I used to”, said an older gentleman at a recent consultation. I saw a few other resigned looks of helplessness when I scanned the virtual room.
COVID-19 shines a sobering spotlight on the deeply rooted discrimination and inequities against old persons worldwide. We can no longer justify inaction and complacency. Therefore, it is with loud cheers that we applauded the 146 Member States who signed a statement of support for the UN Secretary General’s “Policy Brief: The impact of COVID-19
When 85-year-old Charles goes for lunch with his daughter, he feels invisible. The waitress asks his daughter what he wants to eat. Charles feels frustrated and powerless as if his voice has been snatched from him, without permission. This is just a small example of what aging without voice and choice means for older
“If you want us to live a long life, make it so that we can actually live our lives!” This was a comment borne out of frustration but reflects well the general feeling in a recent discussion about older persons and justice. More than 30 people gathered to share stories of the injustice they’ve
“Live as if you are going to die tomorrow. Learn as if you are going to live forever.” --Mahatma Gandhi When we think of learning, school is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Tests, homework and grumpy teachers don’t make for a lot of positive memories. As we get older, though, we
