Fighting ageist beliefs: Why every age deserves to dream, achieve, and aspire
“It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing dreams.”
This thought-provoking quote from Gabriel García Márquez highlights a pervasive ageist belief that permeates our society: the idea that older people have a diminished capacity to pursue dreams, aspirations, and achievements.
As Ageism Awareness Day approaches on October 7, it is essential to address this deeply ingrained social injustice that continues to impact the lives of older people worldwide.
Ageism is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “the stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination toward others or oneself based on age.” It is one of the last socially acceptable forms of bigotry today.
Ageism manifests in various forms, both subtle and overt. From casual jokes about forgetfulness to systematic exclusion from the workforce, these stereotypes undermine the worth and capabilities of older individuals.
For the older people who are the target of ageism, the impact can be profoundly detrimental. Ageist attitudes lead to decreased self-esteem, increased social isolation, and a higher risk of depression and anxiety. These negative effects can compromise the quality of life for our older citizens, who deserve to age with dignity and respect.
However, ageism does not only harm those experiencing it; it also affects the individuals perpetuating these stereotypes. In a 2005 article in the Journal of Social Issues, Todd Nelson said, “Ageism is prejudice against our future self,” a statement that still rings true today. Ageism can shorten a lifespan by 7.5 years. According to a 2002 study by Becca Levy, individuals with a more positive self-perception of aging lived an average of 7.5 years longer than those with less positive self-perceptions. Furthermore, people with a more positive self-perception about aging experienced better overall health.
When we engage in ageist thinking, we miss the chance to benefit from the wisdom and experiences of older individuals. As a society, we must recognize that age is not a determinant of one's worth or abilities. Embracing diversity, including age diversity, enriches our communities and promotes intergenerational understanding.
To combat ageism, we must strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Let us actively challenge ageist attitudes and assumptions by fostering intergenerational connections and valuing the contributions of older individuals. As we age, we should embrace the opportunities for growth and learning, understanding that each phase of life brings unique gifts and perspectives.
The fight against ageism starts with each one of us. On this Ageism Awareness Day, let us reflect on how we treat older people and commit to being more mindful in our interactions. Embrace empathy, engage in meaningful conversations with older individuals, and celebrate their achievements and life experiences.
Only then can we truly celebrate the wisdom and diversity that age brings to our society.
Brian Marquez is the Communications and Development Coordinator at Elder Care Services. He is an advocate for social justice with a passion for aging and LGBTQIA+ issues.
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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Challenging stereotypes: Addressing ageism on Ageism Awareness Day
