World Health Day on 7 April provides an opportunity to focus on a single health challenge with global impact.  The theme of the Day this year is Ageing and health: Good health adds life to years.

Good health not only enables older men and women to live longer, but also extends their active involvement in all levels of society.  When able to participate fully, older people are resources for their families and communities throughout the world.

“Increased longevity is a cause for celebration and something to which we all aspire.  Older people make many valuable contributions to society — as family members, as active participants in the workforce, and as volunteers within communities.  The wisdom they have gained throughout their lives makes them a unique resource for society.”
-- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, World Health Day message

Volunteers provide important support in enabling older men and women to participate fully in their communities.  Read about the contribution of UN Volunteers to the good health and well-being of older people and the work of senior UN Online Volunteers who are actively engaged in promoting development.

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