Celebrate the International Day of Older Persons

The following blog post was written by James Thurston – Director of International Accessibility Policy at Microsoft. James works with Microsoft’s global subsidiaries, NGOs, and governments around the world to develop public policies that support broad digital inclusion.

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Today is the International Day of Older Persons, a date the United Nations designated nearly a quarter century ago to focus on the lives of seniors.

In 2012, the Assembly on Ageing built upon the UN’s idea by adopting the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, which focuses on “the right to health, participation and equality of opportunity throughout life.”

At Microsoft, we know technology can support the plan’s important goals in many ways, including:

• Connect seniors with family, friends, the workplace and community.
• Keep them fit and healthy.
• Help them manage personal health information.
• Provide experiences to better use computers and mobile devices.
• Support their ability to live independently, so they can stay in their own homes longer as they age.

For more information about customizing your computer check out our “Guide for Individuals with Age-Related Impairments.” And here are some inspiring real-world examples of accessible technology helping seniors stay connected, active, and productive.

Take a moment or longer today to celebrate the older people in your life.