In partnership with the Pontifical Academy of Life, Età Grande Foundation and the Memorial Papa Francisco, this historic gathering brought together heads of state, private sector innovators, intergovernmental organizations, faith leaders and civil society representatives from more than 20 countries for “The Memory: A Symposium Addressing the Opportunities and Challenges of an Aging Global Population.”

Building on Pope Francis’ call to include older people in our thinking and policies, the two-day symposium offered a rare opportunity for international dialogue about caregiving, brain health, the longevity economy and the unique challenges of aging in developing nations. The discussion included various scientific, religious and cultural perspectives.

The timing couldn’t have been more striking. My AARP colleagues and I arrived in Rome just as white smoke was rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. The news of Pope Leo’s election spread fast, and the streets were jam-packed with jubilation. Thanks to the extraordinary commitment of our Vatican cosponsors, the symposium moved forward and the welcome deepened.

Our meeting was an urgent call to action. Attendees were united in seeking greater worldwide support to confront the challenges and realize the opportunites created by the rapid growth of the aging population.

The megatrend of aging is already reshaping societies. Consider these facts:

By 2050, more than 2.1 billion people—1 in 5—will be 60 or older. Sixty-two countries will have at least 30 percent of their population over age 60. And a stunning 80 percent of the 60-plus population will reside in lower- and middle-income countries.

This dramatic demographic shift will impact all aspects of society, including economic growth, health care systems, the composition of the workforce, the design of urban areas and more. By planning now, we can ensure that populations everywhere thrive.

Our symposium culminated in the signing of the “Vatican City Declaration of the Pontifical Academy of Life—AARP—Muslim Council of Elders,” a landmark document establishing the following key commitments and strategic priorities for global aging initiatives:

▶︎ Actively support a world where older persons can live with purpose and dignity.

▶︎ Recognize the critical contributions of family caregivers.

▶︎ Help enable healthier, longer lives.

▶︎ Actively support brain health strategies in all countries.

▶︎ Combat age discrimination in all forms.

▶︎ Support an international treaty to protect the rights and dignity of older persons.

▶︎ And support the establishment of an international entity to champion older adults.

AARP is primarily focused on serving older Americans. We’ve long believed we can improve our ability to do that by learning from people around the world. Our partnership with the Vatican as cohost of this symposium builds on that commitment.

As our founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, once said, “What we do, we do for all.” AARP works on behalf of older adults everywhere and on behalf of members and nonmembers alike. AARP is proud to be in the vanguard of the international response to the challenges of global aging.