Challenging ageism involves recognizing and addressing discriminatory attitudes, behaviours, and practices based on age. Again, I am focusing on the arena I work in, which involves people above state retirement age. However, these challenges can apply to many areas of life.

Here’s a guide to effectively challenging ageism:

1.       Education and Awareness:

1. Understand Ageism: Learn about its forms and how it manifests in society. Recognize that ageism can affect people of all ages, not just the elderly.
2. Raise Awareness: Share information about ageism with others through discussions, social media, or community events. Encourage dialogue to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about different age groups.

2. Advocate for Inclusive Policies:

1. Support Anti-Discrimination Laws: Advocate for legislation against age discrimination in employment, healthcare, housing, and other areas.
2. Promote Age-Inclusive Practices: Encourage organizations to adopt age-inclusive policies and practices that value individuals of all ages and create opportunities for intergenerational collaboration.

 

3. Foster Intergenerational Connections:

1. Build Relationships Across Generations: Engage in activities that bring people of different ages together, such as volunteering, mentorship programs, or community projects.
2. Celebrate Diversity: Embrace the diverse perspectives and experiences of individuals of different ages. Encourage mutual respect and understanding among generations.

 

4. Challenge Stereotypes:

1. Speak Up: Address ageist comments or jokes when you encounter them. Politely but firmly challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about age.
2. Highlight Positive Aging: Share stories and examples of older adults leading fulfilling lives, pursuing new goals, and making valuable contributions to society.

 

5. Promote Lifelong Learning:

1. Encourage Personal Growth: Support opportunities for continuous learning and skill development at all stages of life. Challenge the notion that older individuals are less capable or adaptable.
2. Combat Age-Based Marginalization: Advocate for equal access to education, training, and employment opportunities regardless of age.

 

6. Foster Age-Friendly Environments:

1. Design Inclusive Spaces: Promote environments that accommodate the needs and preferences of individuals of all ages, including accessible infrastructure and services.
2. Combat Age-Based Segregation: Address age segregation in communities by promoting intergenerational living arrangements, accessible transportation, and inclusive recreational facilities.

 

7. Lead by Example:

1. Examine Your Own Biases: Reflect on your own attitudes and beliefs about age. Be mindful of any ageist assumptions or stereotypes you may hold and challenge them.
2. Promote Respect and Dignity: In your interactions, treat people of all ages with respect and dignity. Model inclusive behaviour and language in your personal and professional life.

 

By taking proactive steps to challenge ageism, individuals can create a more inclusive and equitable society where people of all ages are valued and respected.

Challenging ageism: A guide to talking about ageing and older age | Centre for Ageing Better