Dr. Jane Barratt
Secretary General, International Federation on Ageing (IFA)
Increased life expectancy is to be celebrated, but only when individuals have the optimal opportunity to live in relatively good health and with a high quality of life. By the year 2050, the number of people aged 60 years and over is projected to be at least 2.1 billion, up from 900 million in 2015. It’s vital to plan for a world where all citizens can experience “healthy ageing” and be enabled to do whatever it is they want to do.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC) has nearly 900 members from over 39 countries. This growing organization has the power to shape and influence age-related policy by putting initiatives into practice for citizens of all ages. Emerging and established leaders of age-friendly communities have recently had the opportunity to further develop their skills through the pilot Age-friendly Environments Mentorship Programme, MENTOR-AFE. Existing experts share their knowledge and experience to develop mentees’ skills to lead, influence, and implement age-friendly environments, and, in doing so, reinforce their own leadership and expertise.
The International Federation on Ageing (IFA) is driving the agenda for the world’s aging population which is grounded on respecting and protecting the rights of older people. Adaptations and innovations in the housing sector, urban planning, transportation, community hubs, and health services, as well as civic participation, should be core to a community for all ages.
