Older people have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders from around the world have expressed their concern about its effects on older people, communities and society. They have also called for a response that addresses the needs and rights of older people.
António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General highlighted that “our response to COVID-19 must respect the rights and dignity of older people”. He had four main messages when he launched a recent policy brief on the impact of COVID-19 and older people. These were:
“No person, young or older, is expendable. Older people have the same rights to life and death as everyone else. Difficult decisions around life-saving medical care must respect the human rights and dignity of all.
We need improved social support and smarter efforts to reach older people.
WHO 2020.06.16
