Our role and impact with the Open-Ended Working Group on Aging (OEWGA), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and the World Health Organization (WHO)

Abstract

Objectives:

1. 1. Highlight the Collaborative Efforts of Key International Organizations:

   Illustrate the critical role of the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA), World Psychiatric Association (WPA), and other organizations in working with UN bodies to advance the human rights of older people.

2. 2. Emphasize the Importance of Increased Engagement and Advocacy:

   Discuss why deeper engagement from mental health professionals and advocacy groups is necessary to influence global policies and initiatives that protect and promote the rights of older persons.

3. 3. Demonstrate the Impact of International Cooperation:

Summary: Provide examples of how collaboration with the UN Open-Ended Working Group on Aging, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the World Health Organization has led to tangible improvements in the lives of older persons, particularly those with mental health conditions.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the role of international organizations such as the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) and the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) has become vital in promoting the human rights of older people. This talk will explore how these organizations collaborate with key UN bodies, including the Open-Ended Working Group on Aging, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the World Health Organization, to address the unique challenges faced by older persons, especially those who live with mental health conditions. By engaging more deeply with these global efforts, we can enhance scientific advocacy, develop comprehensive policies, and implement effective interventions that safeguard the rights and well-being of older persons. This presentation will underscore the necessity of cross-sector engagement and international cooperation in fostering an inclusive world where the human rights of older people are fully actualized and protected.

“The UN Decade’s and our own efforts to address ageism”

Ageism is defined as stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination towards people because of their age. It can be directed towards people of any age and be either positive or negative. However, its negative impact, especially on older persons is well documented. Given its substantial impact, it is one of four pillars identified by the UN Decade as essential to tackle to achieve a world for all ages. The UN Global Report on Ageism proposed three evidence-based strategies to reduce ageism. In this presentation, I will illustrate one such strategy, which consists of a 90-minute educational workshop. The workshop was delivered to 318 Israeli adolescents (aged 11 to 15, 73.9% females) to increase their familiarity with the concept, reduce their negative ageist stereotypes, and increase their inclination to become social activists via social media. We found an improved familiarity with the concept ‘ageism’, while adolescents drew upon concepts such as discrimination and racism to define ageism. Following the intervention, a diverse range of age-related stereotypes emerged, signaling a shift toward more positive perceptions, with notable growth in positive age stereotypes, especially among females. Finally, about two-thirds of created memes (online visual and textual social messages) targeted ageism against older persons, 18.98% promoted an age-inclusive world, and 17.15% addressed ageism towards children and young persons. ications for reducing ageism in adolescence and for measuring social change arediscussed.