Source: UN News: Thursday, 02 July 2026 00:00 AM
Prevailing beliefs in society about aging not only influence public policies, but also shape how people think about their own aging. A recently released report has appealed to move away from the thinking that presents the elderly as a burden on society. The United Nations European Economic Commission (UNECE) reports that in many societies, aging is still associated with physical and mental decline, dependence on others, and withdrawal from public life. Such perceptions influence social attitudes, policies, and opportunities toward older people. Additionally, people themselves internalize these biases, which can have a negative impact on their health, self-confidence, and overall well-being. Public perceptions Importance The Commission’s report notes that societal perceptions and discussions about aging have far-reaching implications. In many countries, the growing elderly population is often presented as a challenge, a burden, or a potential crisis. In contrast, the report advocates promoting a balanced, fact-based and inclusive approach to all age groups, which also recognizes the opportunities associated with longevity and the diversity of older people. The report includes examples from different countries are also given in which efforts have been made to present aging from a more positive perspective, while also offering practical suggestions for policy-makers. 26-09-2022_ADB_India.jpg Older women in India often depend on their families for their sustenance and social well-being. Active Contribution: The report states that viewing aging only as a form of dependency and burden does not fully reflect the reality. Currently, millions of elderly people are actively contributing to work, volunteering, family care and community activities. In the European Union alone, approximately 41 million people aged 55 to 64 are active in the labor market, and their participation has increased significantly over the past decade. According to the report, longer and healthier lives should also be seen as an economic opportunity. However, discussions focused on concerns such as pressure on pensions, health services and government spending often overshadow the positive role of older people. The Commission warns that Terms such as “demographic time bomb” or “silver tsunami” promote stereotypes and limit balanced discussion of issues related to aging in society. Emphasis on Positive Thinking The report says that stereotypes related to age can have a real impact on people’s health, well-being and social participation. Changing society’s thinking about aging is not just a matter of communication, but also of tackling ageism and improving the well-being of all age groups. It is necessary to increase participation. The report also highlights that age-based discrimination can affect all age groups and weaken trust and solidarity between generations. In view of this, the Commission has appealed to the governments of the countries to include the elderly in decision-making, bring forward their diverse experiences and promote positive attitudes related to aging with policy measures. OHCHR/Claudia Mahler Claudia Mahler, the UN Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of the Human Rights of Older Persons, during a visit to Nigeria in September 2022. An appeal is made to give respect to the elderly. The challenge is not aging, but… The report says that the challenge is not aging, but society’s reaction to it. If aging is seen as a shared achievement and opportunity, rather than as a crisis or burden, solidarity between generations will be stronger and better policies can be developed. In many countries, older people are still portrayed as dependent or isolated from society, when this perception does not match the reality. This message is in line with the objectives of the UN Decade of Healthy Aging, which aims to ensure that every person has the opportunity to live a healthy and active life. Met.