Developing countries face the most rapid rate of population ageing and the greatest economic difficulties, but lack the necessary financial, social and health infrastructures to address these issues. The devastating effects of conflict and illnesses such as AIDS have drastically altered the population structure of some countries, exposing older persons to greater vulnerability. Changes in family patterns, structures and life styles can have a detrimental impact on older persons. We reaffirm the 1982 Vienna International Action Plan on Ageing, then the 1990 IFA Declaration of Rights and Responsibilities of Older Persons, and the 1991 UN Principles for the Elderly. Older persons have the right to self-determination and fulfillment, dignity and respect, personal security, freedom of speech, association, and religious expression.
Older persons have the right of access to work, income, health care and shelter.
The responsibilities of older persons include contributing to the realization of these rights by participating in the political processes of their community in accordance with UN democratic principles. The empowerment of older persons necessitates their recognition as full participants and equal citizens in society. Recommend to the United Nations that all National Plans on Ageing Assure the universal access of older persons to economic security, food, health care, shelter, clothing and transportation. Assure the full participation of older persons in the social, cultural and political life of their communities. Assure that the dignity and quality of care for older persons are established, maintained and safeguarded, and that older persons are free from exploitation and mental and physical abuse.