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October 1 • Aging & Wisdom

Day of Older Persons

On December 14, 1990, the UN General Assembly designated October 1st as the International Day of Older Persons. It is a day to recognize the contributions of older people to society and to address the challenges of aging in the 21st century. Today we're debating the wisdom economy—is society becoming too obsessed with youth, and are we losing the valuable life experience of our elders? We explore how to bridge the generational gap.

Day of Older Persons Lesson Visual

Speaking Discussion

  • Does your culture truly respect its elders, or are they often ignored in modern society?
  • What is the most valuable lesson you have ever learned from a person at least 30 years older than you?
  • Should there be a maximum age for politicians and world leaders?
  • How can we create cities that are age-Friendly and inclusive for everyone?
  • Is retirement a positive reward for hard work, or a negative way of saying someone is no longer useful?

Activity 1: The Bridge Builder

You are a Community Organizer. You want to start a program where "Old and Young" people teach each other skills. Pitch your idea using the word "Wisdom".

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate

Justify your answer in 30 seconds:

  • "Youth is wasted on the young."
  • "Grandparents are the best teachers in the world."
  • "Age is just a number; it should never limit your career."