Blog #82: International Day of YOU – the Older Person

October 1st is nearly here. Across the globe, we celebrate the United Nations International Day of Older Persons. This year’s theme is more than a statement. It’s a recognition:

“Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, and Our Rights.”

You may have seen those words and nodded, but let’s take a moment to really contemplate them. Before the world joins in tomorrow, we get to check in with ourselves—quietly, honestly, and with intention.

We're better when we all come together.

Our Aspirations

Aspirations are not just dreams for some far-off someday. They are the daily signals that point us toward meaning. At WonderCrone, we define aspiration in our third chapter as the desire to live with:

• Agency — claiming our power to shape what’s next.

• Direction — choosing what matters now and saying yes to it.

• Joy — letting delight and creativity take up space in our lives.

• Possibility — refusing to shrink just because the world expects us to.

So today, ask yourself: What do I aspire to in this next chapter? It could be bold. It could be quiet. It only needs to be true.

Our Well-Being

Well-being is not just physical—it’s a full spectrum of needs and nourishment.

• Physical — how we move, rest, and feel in our bodies

• Social — the relationships that sustain and support us

• Emotional — the way we process life and hold space for our stories

• Financial — the freedom to make choices with dignity

Each part deserves attention. And each one is a legitimate site of service—to ourselves and others.

So today, reflect: Where is your well-being thriving? Where does it need a little tending? You don’t need to overhaul your life. You just need to notice. And then take one loving step.

Our Rights

No matter where we live, no matter how old we are, we hold the same fundamental rights as every other citizen on the planet.

Yet too often, ageism chips away at those rights. Sometimes subtly, sometimes bluntly, but nevertheless, eroding. When older adults are ignored in public discourse, denied healthcare, erased from policymaking, or treated as burdens rather than humans, our rights are not being honored.

Let us be clear:

• We have the right to safety, dignity, and self-determination.

• We have the right to participate.

• We have the right to be seen, heard, and respected.

Today, take a moment to affirm this: My age does not diminish my rights. It deepens my perspective. Let that be your baseline as you enter October 1.

Your Reflection for Today

Before the hashtags start flying and the official statements roll in, ask yourself:

• What aspiration am I holding right now?

• What small step could support my well-being today?

• Where in my life do I want my rights—and the rights of others—to be seen more clearly?

Write it down. Speak it out loud. Share it with a friend. If you’re feeling bold, post it on your social media tomorrow with the tag #AgingInPower or #WonderCrone.