Incorporating a Gender Perspective to Realise the Health and Human Rights of Older Persons

Abstract

Gender is a social construct, yet it touches nearly every aspect of human life, with sweeping influence on health and human rights. Despite this influence, policy applications of gender in the rights of women, girls, and gender minorities have focused on the needs of youth and those of reproductive age. The gender-related human rights of older persons are often overlooked. Drawing on gender analysis across the life course, this chapter outlines health-related human rights obligations, reviews the history of intersectional advocacy on gender and ageing, and traces how a gender-sensitive approach can inform thinking across the health needs of older persons. This analysis provides a basis for recommendations to mainstream a gender perspective throughout the proposed treaty on the rights of older persons and develop gender-specific health obligations on states parties.