In reality there are very significant differences, though it is only recently that research has started to focus on ageing from a gender perspective. Older people are frail. In reality the vast majority of older people remain physically fit well into later life. Older persons have nothing to contribute. In reality the net contribution of older persons to their families and communities is vast, albeit difficult to quantify since much of it is unremunerated.
Older people are an economic burden.
In reality, this burden is caused to a large extent by older people being excluded from paid work, despite their willingness and ability to continue. To help draw attention to the challenges and opportunities population ageing brings, the United Nations has designated 1999 the International Year of Older Persons. This sets the stage for WHO to promote active ageing policies and programmes worldwide, working with government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, professional associations, academic institutions and the media to provide the initiative for organizing events and activities. These in their turn will help to form a global network of collaboration in defining policies and models of good practice. Health systems, social services and employment policies are already being reshaped to fit the current and emerging demographic reality.