October 1st marks the United Nations International Day of Older Persons. Across the globe, humanity is experiencing a profound transformation: people are living longer than at any other point in history. Under the 2026 UN theme, "The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives," International Longevity Centre Canada calls on governments and civil society to reshape health systems, labour markets, housing, and social protections. When societies eliminate systemic ageism and invest in healthy ageing, longer lives create a powerful "longevity dividend" that strengthens communities and economies for all generations.
