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With the new living standards, fertility rates are going down, people are living longer, and the country is facing population ageing. The latest census reported 9.7 % of the Iranian population to be above 65 years old. The number and proportion of older people (65+) will increase gradually and surpass 0-19 age groups in the long run affecting the dependency ratio. If the country invests in the existing young population, and adapts to the rapid population transition, a higher number of older people can be served in the near future. UNFPA supports the Government's efforts to respond to the needs of older persons, particularly women, through capacity development, knowledge generation and policy reform, increasing income security in old age, access to health and long-term care services, promoting community recognition and participation, adopting life-cycle and community driven approaches, and creating age-friendly and enabling environments to ensure older people live in dignity and respect.