The Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity in Mauritius is observing the 36th International Day of Older Persons with a national event at the J&J Auditorium, Phoenix, on October 1, 2026. This event aims to recognize the contributions of older citizens to society and launch intergenerational solidarity dialogues and activities that bring together seniors, youth, students, and NGOs.
Mauritius is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with approximately 276,000 Mauritians aged 60 and above, and those aged 65 and over representing nearly 15% of the population. Life expectancy has increased from around 60 years in the mid-20th century to between 76 and 78 years today, reflecting major advances in health and living conditions.
The theme of the 2026 International Day of Older Persons, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” highlights the need for society to rethink how people live, work, and care for one another across the life course. The challenge is no longer just extending lifespan but ensuring that added years are lived with dignity, independence, purpose, and connection.
The traditional Mauritian extended family, once a natural cradle of intergenerational exchange, no longer reflects everyday reality. Junior Minister Kugan Parapen noted that the past two to three decades have seen a marked shift towards smaller, nuclear households, with migration, work pressures, and faster lifestyles leading to more dispersed families and reduced spontaneous interaction between generations.
This shift intersects with growing concerns about loneliness, with estimates suggesting that up to 70% of Generation Z experience loneliness, despite constant digital connectivity. In response, the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity is implementing measures to help older Mauritians age with security while ensuring younger generations inherit a cohesive, just, and ecologically sustainable nation.
Among the initiatives announced are the recruitment of 100 young people over three years to visit seniors aged 80 and above, a Senior Volunteer Executive Programme, and the establishment of a Just Transition Commission. Civil society groups, such as the Senior Citizens Council, are also advocating for a rights-based approach to ageing, with practical proposals for intergenerational programmes and activities.
Experts and advocates stress that the success of national programmes depends on continuity, purpose, and genuine exchange. They emphasize that older persons have no expiry date on their human rights, dignity, or capacity to contribute, and that Mauritius must move beyond a welfare-based view of ageing towards one grounded in rights, dignity, participation, and contribution.
Key points
- The Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity is marking the 36th International Day of Older Persons with a national event at the J&J Auditorium in Phoenix on October 1, 2026.
- Mauritius is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with approximately 276,000 Mauritians aged 60 and above.
- The theme of the 2026 International Day of Older Persons highlights the need for society to rethink how people live, work, and care for one another across the life course.
