January 2026

Looking forward to 2026!

As we return from the December break and begin the new term at the IFA, we are pleased to share that a number of new initiatives and developments are already underway, reflecting the evolving direction of the organization.

We look forward to sharing further details in the months ahead and encourage members to stay tuned for upcoming announcements.

Latest Projects and Updates

Creating Cross-Sectoral Consensus and Advocating for Pneumococcal Vaccination Amongst Older Adults in Canada

The International Federation on Ageing has released Creating Cross-Sectoral Consensus and Advocating for Pneumococcal Vaccination Among Older Adults in Canada, a new consensus statement calling for stronger action to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia among Canada’s ageing population.

Despite being largely preventable through vaccination, pneumococcal pneumonia continues to cause serious illness, hospitalization, and functional decline in older adults. National vaccination targets remain unmet, underscoring persistent gaps in awareness, access, and policy prioritization.

Developed through expert and civil society engagement, the consensus statement outlines shared priorities to:

Strengthen public and provider awareness of pneumococcal disease and vaccination
Elevate political prioritization and integrate pneumococcal vaccination into routine adult immunization
Improve uptake through standardized reminders and more integrated, team-based care

Together, these actions aim to protect health, preserve independence, and strengthen the resilience of Canada’s health system as the population ages.

Explore the Consensus Statement

IFA's Virtual Townhall:

Challenges, Opportunities, and Collaboration for Multisectoral Engagement in Healthy Ageing

The IFA’s virtual townhall, “Challenges, Opportunities, and Collaboration for Multisectoral Engagement in Healthy Ageing,” brought together participants from across sectors and regions for an engaging discussion on the future of healthy ageing.

The session highlighted the importance of collaboration, shared learning, and the value of bringing diverse perspectives together at this critical midpoint of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing. Participants reflected on both the challenges and opportunities facing the sector and emphasized the importance of continued multisectoral engagement to drive meaningful progress.

The townhall also provided an opportunity to share early insights from the IFA’s Global Older Persons’ Survey and Multisectoral Engagement Survey. The thoughtful discussion and strong level of engagement reinforced the importance of listening to lived experience and cross-sector perspectives as priorities continue to evolve.

The IFA extends its sincere appreciation to all presenters, partners, and participants for contributing to such an open and constructive dialogue, and especially to Ms. Amal Abou Rafeh from UN DESA and Dr. Ritu Sadana from WHO for their valuable opening reflections.

This discussion marked only the beginning, and we look forward to sharing more in the months ahead. Stay tuned for further updates and findings!

Join the Global Rally for Older People’s Rights!

From 1–7 February 2026, advocates, organizations, and campaigners around the world will come together for the Global Rally for Older People’s Rights, led by the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People (GAROP). Under the theme “Equal Voices, Equal Rights,” the rally will build support for a new UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons and highlight the importance of protecting the rights, dignity, and inclusion of older people worldwide.

Join the movement and take part in this important global call to action!

Find out more

Keep up to date with the latest news, events, publications, and opportunities from the IFA by visiting our website and following us on social media!

LinkedIn: /ifageing

Facebook: /ifageing

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IFA Global Café

These monthly conversations are a space to connect, exchange ideas, and spark action on the most pressing issues in ageing.

At the IFA, we believe in the power of dialogue to shape change. Guided by the four action areas of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, the Global Café brings together voices from across sectors and regions to build a common agenda that influences policy and practice.

What’s new?

The Global Café will now take place the second Thursday of every month
Time: 8:00–9:00 AM (ET) – aligned to accommodate participants across different time zones

Why attend?

Be part of a global community committed to healthy ageing
Gain insights from thought leaders and innovators
Contribute your voice to conversations that shape real-world solutions
Build connections and exchange ideas with professionals across diverse sectors

Upcoming Session:

On 12 February, join the IFA Global Café for a virtual conversation with Ms. Shainoor Khoja, Founder and CEO of Thriving.ai. This session will explore how digital health and emerging technologies can support older adults to live independently, safely, and with dignity.

The discussion will also examine how inclusive and accessible approaches can help ensure technological progress benefits everyone.

Date: 12 February 2026

Time: 8:00–9:00 AM ET

Have topics or speakers you would like to see on the IFA Global Café? Feel welcome to contact Policy and Project Coordinator Salsabila Ahmed (sahmed@ifa.ngo) with your recommendations!

IFA Global Café Archive

If you were unable to attend any of the IFA Global Café sessions, we have great news for you! All past sessions, along with valuable resources and materials, are now accessible on our website.

We invite you to visit our website to experience the wealth of knowledge and expertise shared by our distinguished speakers and panelists. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the thought-provoking content from the IFA Global Café series.

View Past Sessions

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