On October 1st, Uruguay observes the International Day of Older Persons against the backdrop of an aging population and a transition toward a society characterized by high longevity.
The country has the oldest demographic structure in Latin America, with over 545,000 people aged 65 or older—representing 16 percent of the national population—according to data from the National Institute of Statistics.
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The United Nations General Assembly designated this date in 1990 to recognize the contributions of older persons and to promote their inclusion, rights, and well-being. In Uruguay, the observance is part of a broader discussion regarding the social, economic, and health-related transformations linked to rising life expectancy and declining fertility rates, which currently hover around 1.2 children per woman.
This year, the National Institute for Older Persons (Inmayores) is promoting the slogan The voices of older persons strengthen and build rights. The agency’s director, Marianela Lárzabal, highlighted the need to improve the quality of care and guarantee rights related to housing, justice, education, and culture.
🔴 “Hay un subregistro de datos de maltrato y abuso a la vejez. Violencia psicológica, abuso patrimonial, entre otras. El 82% de personas que sufren maltrato son mujeres. Poner el tema en agenda es una buena primera opción” Marianela Larzábal, directora del INMAYORES del MIDES. pic.twitter.com/C7idHtaGQ2
— INFO CAPITAL (@InfoCapitalTV) June 15, 2026
The text reads, “”There is an underreporting of data on mistreatment and abuse in old age. Psychological violence, patrimonial abuse, among others. 82% of people who suffer mistreatment are women. Putting the issue on the agenda is a good first option” Marianela Larzábal, director of INMAYORES at MIDES.”
Lárzabal advocated for approaching aging from a perspective that acknowledges the diversity of experiences. In this regard, she called for distinguishing between the various ways of experiencing old age and moving beyond the stereotype that there is only one way to age.
According to the director, old age is diverse and multifaceted, shaped by an individual’s life trajectory. Consequently, Inmayores incorporates gender, diversity, and intersectionality perspectives to identify how the accumulation of discrimination and other social factors can impact the lives of older persons. Activities in Montevideo and across the country
Throughout October, community activities, cultural festivals, mental health forums, and healthy walking events will take place at various locations nationwide. In Montevideo, the City Government’s Secretariat for Older Adults will host a gathering and exchange event on October 1st at the Hotel del Prado. Participants will include workshops, local networks, community groups, and the general public, featuring simultaneous activities and a joint closing session.
The 30th edition of the Older Adults’ Choir Festival will be held from October 20th to 29th—running Monday through Friday—at the Sala Azul of the Montevideo City Government building. Admission to the performances is free, and the event will feature the participation of over 120 choirs from across the country.
On November 6th, the National Gathering of Older Adults will take place, organized by the country’s 19 departments through the Interdepartmental Commission on Older Adults. The event will be held at the Prado de Florida park as part of the independence bicentennial celebrations.
#FromTheSouth News Bits | Port workers in Uruguay began a strike following a collective bargaining dispute and a government decree mandating minimum services. pic.twitter.com/PocvzTBEwP
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