Positive Aging: Ageism Awareness

Ageism Awareness Day is October 9

October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day — a chance to spotlight one of the most normalized yet harmful forms of discrimination: ageism. The American Society on Aging defines it as “stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) toward others or ourselves based on age.”

Ageism is more than offhand jokes about “being over the hill.” It has toxic effects that ripple across society, limit opportunities, and impact health. Ageism doesn’t just target older adults — it narrows how all of us imagine our futures.

“Age beliefs, it turns out, can steal or add nearly eight years to your life.”
— Becca R. Levy, Breaking the Age Code

Levy’s groundbreaking research shows that people with positive views of aging live an average of 7.5 years longer than those who internalize negative stereotypes.

Shifting how we think about aging can be transformative. Rather than imagining aging as a burden to overcome, we can redefine it as an opportunity to leverage lived experiences for growth, creativity, and connection.

Ageism is as toxic as any other “-ism,” but it isn’t inevitable. By naming it, challenging it, and adopting a positive vision of aging, we create space to celebrate every stage of life.

This October 9 — Ageism Awareness Day — let’s commit to dismantling toxic ageism and celebrating the full potential of aging. Aging is something we all do—it’s a lifelong journey, and it’s better when we do it together. You can:

• Stay informed at MySourcePoint.org
• Volunteer your time or talents
• Donate to support community programs
• Start a conversation about what aging well looks like for you
• Make friends with people of all ages

Let’s keep Delaware County a place where people don’t just grow older—they grow stronger, more connected, and more empowered than ever.

---