Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) has been annually observed on December 3 around the world. Disabled adults must also be acknowledged for their strengths, and not just for their vulnerabilities.
An estimated 14% of the Canadian population lives with some form of disability. Disabilities become increasingly common with age, ranging from a low of 6.3% of those between the ages of 15 and 29 to a high of 45.7% among those aged 65 and over. Adults with disabilities may be vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Many disabled adults are lonely and isolated.
Past themes associated with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities include:
- Dignity and Justice for all of us
- Decent Work for Persons with Disabilities
- The Future is Accessible
- Empowering Persons with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality
While Government support plays an important role, community members who care and reach out with assistance can make a big difference in the lives of persons living with disabilities.