What matters to us as we grow older? Older people have their say

What does it mean to grow older with dignity, independence and choice?

A new report from Age International and Age UK has been listening to older people in the UK and around the world to find out what rights matter most to them. The message is clear: older people want to be heard, respected and able to live their lives with dignity.

The All our rights: Hearing from older people across the world report highlights a number of issues that older people say are particularly important, including:

• Being treated with dignity, equality and respect
• Access to health and social care without discrimination
• Having financial security
• Having basic needs met, including housing, warmth and safety
• Being heard and included in decisions that affect our lives
• Having choice and not being excluded by digital-only services

These are global concerns, but they are also issues that matter here in Norfolk.

At Age UK Norfolk, we see every day how the right support and information can help people in later life to remain independent, make informed choices and have their voices heard.

Financial security is one example. The report highlights the importance of having enough income to meet everyday needs, with one UK contributor describing the reality simply: “You shouldn’t have to choose between heating and eating.”

Our Information & Advice, Welfare Benefits and Money MOT services can help people understand what support they may be entitled to and build the skills and confidence to manage their household finances.

Digital exclusion is another concern. As more essential services move online, people who aren't confident using technology can find themselves excluded. Age UK analysis cited in the report found that 38% of older people in the UK are partially or totally digitally excluded. Our Digital Inclusion service helps people develop the skills and confidence to use technology, while recognising that digital should not be the only route to support.

At the heart of the report is a simple principle: “nothing about us, without us.” Older people's experiences and voices should be central to decisions that affect their lives.

Because growing older should never mean losing your voice, your choices or your right to be treated with dignity and respect.