The 36th United Nations International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) was commemorated on 6 October 2026 under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.” In view of significant gains in longevity, the theme invited the international community to reimagine how societies could make longer lives also healthy, productive, dignified and equitable lives. The event focused on the role of systems – social protection, health and long-term care, work and lifelong learning, and enabling environments – in allowing people to age with security, dignity, health and continued participation. The Asia-Pacific virtual commemoration, convened by ESCAP, regionalized the theme and connects it to the ongoing Fifth Review and Appraisal process of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA).