Fighting Ageism

After reading through our blog, you should probably have an understanding of what ageism is and how it can impact older adults (especially with regards to their mental health). But now, what can we do about this? Now obviously, the biggest way to enact change is through our legislative process and the creation of policies that benefit aging individuals. However, we all can also make changes in our personal lives to help fight against ageism. Making these kinds of changes is something that we can do here and now to impact the people in your own life. Be an example to others and help turn others away from perpetuating ageism.

Here are some practical ways to fight ageism that you can integrate into your life and way of thinking right now (these tips were pulled from a brochure from the Nash County Aging Department in Nashville, TN):

• Educate yourself and others about the aging process
• Get the facts on aging to combat stereotypes and myths about aging
• Teach children the concept of the life cycle with positive images of old age
• Accept aging as a natural part of life
• "Do no resent growing old. Many are denied the privilege." -Unknown

• Challenge yourself to recognize ageism in the things you say and do, then change your language and your actions
• Take notice of the advertisements you see and question why older adults are not represented
• Recognize ageist jokes and avoid using them
• "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." -Plato

For this information and more, check out: http://ssw.unc.edu/cares/sfc/ageism%20brochure.pdf

http://www.fightageism.net/#&panel1-1