Gray Panthers at the High Level Segment of the Economic and Social Council, 07.16.26

https://youtu.be/u8HHcoyP2Z4

Remarks by Jack Kupferman at the High Level Segment of the Economic and Social Council, 38th plenary meeting, 07.16.26

Think globally. Act locally.  

The Stakeholder Group on Ageing offers concrete examples where local authorities, working with civil society, result in programs and policies accelerating the SDGs. Addressing the concerns of older persons is of great importance, yet progress and understanding is slow. Through an age lens, impactful solutions are currently being created. Here are a few examples.

The WHO’s Age Friendly Cities initiative begins with local authorities working directly with older residents.

For example, NYC authorized an Age Friendly commission to enact improvements for older persons and the panoply of residents. It’s been successful. Initiatives, such as providing fresh fruits and vegetables to older persons experiencing food insecurity; improving accessible transport; Improving public spaces by providing additional street furniture for everyone; encouraging seating for those waiting for their prescription drugs; targeting computer training opportunities to older persons; enacting city-wide pedestrian safety initiatives; providing additional lighting in green spaces to enhance security and independence. 

Efforts in the city of Hamilton, Canada provide another example. Increasing tree coverage has been strongly advocated by Age Friendly commission, thereby improving comfort during these increasingly extreme weather conditions. Additional heating and cooling centers address health concerns. Emphasizing sidewalk furniture contributes to a better quality of life for all. 

A third example is Manchester, England’s commitment to Work and Skills Strategy programming creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy which benefits everyone. With high levels of unemployment among the 50+ population, the strategy ensures that older persons can access opportunities matching skills to employment openings. Retraining is a central component of the strategy. The Manchester Digital Strategy supports business growth, employment, and training for older workers. 

In Kochi, India (an Age Friendly City) where comprehensive community assessment and the participation of older persons result in effective programming. Improvements in accessible transport; initiatives seeking to reduce social isolation; addressing access to health and medical opportunities; enhanced green and public spaces addressing the issues facing older persons; programs improving the economic situation of older persons. 

We have solutions. We need the political will to implement them.