DELAWARE COUNTY—SourcePoint, Delaware County’s aging services provider, and the American Society on Aging (ASA) will celebrate Ageism Awareness Day on Oct. 9, 2024. This significant day, inspired by the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons (Oct. 1), highlights the critical issue of ageism and its pervasive effects on individuals and society as a whole.
“As we embrace the reality of an aging population, we must also challenge the outdated and harmful views surrounding it,” said Leanne Clark-Shirley, PhD, President and CEO of the ASA. “Aging is a remarkable and inevitable part of life. Yet, too often, it is met with fear, denial, and even hostility. We cannot afford to limit ourselves—or others—with such negative perceptions. Instead, we should celebrate the opportunities, diversity, and wisdom that come with age.”
Ageism, defined by the World Health Organization as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) toward others or oneself based on age,” is a form of bias that affects individuals across all age groups. It can manifest in various settings, from workplaces and healthcare systems to the media and everyday interactions. Its impact is far-reaching, influencing how people view themselves and others based on age alone.
Ageism is one of the most widespread and socially accepted forms of prejudice, often going unchallenged despite its harmful effects. Consider these alarming facts:
• Ageism exists in multiple forms, including internalized, cultural, implicit, institutional, and even benevolent.
• Research shows that negative self-perceptions of aging can reduce an individual’s quality of life and shorten their lifespan by an average of 7.5 years.
• Ageism intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as racism, amplifying its harmful effects.
• Older adults are frequently underrepresented in the media, where they are often portrayed through harmful stereotypes.
• Globally, according to the United Nations, one in two people harbor ageist views.
SourcePoint believes that raising awareness about ageism is the first step toward meaningful change. Fara Waugh, CEO of SourcePoint, emphasizes the importance of collective action: “We are proud to stand with our members, partners, and allies to combat ageism in all its forms. By understanding its negative impact, we can each take meaningful steps to change how we think, feel, and act about aging. I encourage everyone to join us in this vital effort.”
Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on how we view aging and to take action toward a more inclusive and respectful society. Visit the ASA Ageism Awareness Day webpage to learn more about the steps you can take to challenge ageism in your community, workplace, and personal life.
A straightforward way to challenge ageism is by embracing and owning our age. “I often emphasize the importance of not being afraid to share how old we are,” said Waugh. “In fact, I proudly tell others that I’m 63. If we don’t openly discuss our age, how can people truly understand what being 63—or any age—really looks like?”
Together, we can reshape the narrative around aging and create a world that values every stage of life.
SourcePoint is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides professional expertise, services, and programs for Delaware County adults who want to thrive after 55, as well as family caregivers. Services and programs are supported by the local senior services levy, private and corporate donations, grants, and the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging.
The American Society on Aging unites, empowers, and champions everyone working in aging. Since 1954, ASA has developed and led the largest, most diverse community of professionals working in aging in America. As a result, ASA has become the go-to source to cultivate leadership, advance knowledge, and strengthen the skills of our members and others who work with and on behalf of older adults. For further information about ASA, visit asaging.org.