Nay pyi taw: Myanmar held a ceremony to mark the International Day of Older Persons on Wednesday in Nay Pyi Taw, state-owned daily The Mirror reported on Thursday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Soe Win spoke at the event, highlighting that improvements in medical care, health knowledge, and services have contributed to longer life expectancy worldwide, including in Myanmar. As in many other countries, Myanmar is experiencing a steady rise in its elderly population.

The union minister added that according to the 2024 Population and Housing Census, Myanmar's population is estimated at over 51 million, with more than 6.1 million people aged 60 and above. By 2050, the elderly population is projected to reach around 13 million.

He also noted that the government is providing financial support to nursing homes, introducing technology-based elderly care, and expanding social pension programs nationwide.

During the event, consumer goods, medical supplies, and donations were also provided to elderly attendees.