Today is your day! October 1 marks International Day of Older Persons, a day first declared by the United Nations in 1990 and a chance to celebrate the resilience, wisdom, and lifelong contributions of older Australians.

It’s also a reminder of just how important it is to recognise and respect the role seniors continue to play in shaping our communities.

Relationships Australia NSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw highlighted the important role older Australians play in society, noting that their life experience and skills are a valued resource for younger generations.

“Older people play an immeasurable role in society which should be celebrated,” Shaw said.

“We often assume retirement is a time of rest. Yet we see older people working for longer, volunteering, travelling, caring for grandchildren, and starting new hobbies and relationships. Their contribution enriches our families and communities, and when we underestimate or overlook older Australians, it is to the detriment of us all.”

While the day is about celebration, it’s also a reminder of the challenges many seniors face. Research shows that around 15 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over experience abuse, whether that be physical violence, psychological mistreatment, or financial exploitation.

As Shaw noted, this problem “doesn’t discriminate by postcode or ethnicity.”

Earlier this year, Relationships Australia NSW released its landmark Policy Paper: Ending the Abuse of Older People in NSW. Developed in consultation with government, legal, health and community experts, the Paper sets out a plan to 2030. It calls for stronger services, targeted law reform, investment in the workforce, and a coordinated National Plan to end elder abuse within a generation.

“With demographic trends such as rising dementia rates, increasing intergenerational living, and service shortages in regional areas, the risk of abuse will only grow without sustained investment,” Shaw said.

Through its Let’s Talk program and other frontline services, Relationships Australia NSW provides mediation, counselling, and practical support to older people and their families. But Shaw stressed the issue is bigger than what frontline services alone can handle.

“There are no simple solutions, but there are policies and associated services that can be implemented to help alleviate this awful ailment. Early intervention is key,” Shaw said.

“Vulnerability shouldn’t be exploited and we have a shared responsibility to protect and care for our ageing loved ones. They deserve to be treated with respect.”

International Day of Older Persons is both a celebration and a call to action. It’s a reminder to honour the wisdom and contributions of older adults, while also committing to protect their rights and wellbeing.

Because every older person deserves to feel safe, valued and respected.