Ageism Awareness Day on October 7th
October 6, 2023
Ageism Awareness Day on Saturday, October 7, 2023, is an opportunity to draw attention to the existence and impact of ageism in our society and how we can reframe aging in our communities.
“We live in an aging society, which is a wonderful, remarkable thing,” says ASA’s Interim President & CEO Leanne Clark-Shirley, PhD. “But too many of us view aging with fear, denial and even hostility. We are all growing older. We can’t afford to limit ourselves and other people with such negative and harmful views, and why would we want to? Let’s lean into the opportunities, diversity and full range of experiences that come with aging.”
The most widespread and socially accepted form of prejudice, ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.”
Evidence shows ageism is widespread in society and can be found everywhere, from our workplaces and health systems to stereotypes we see on TV, advertising and in the media.
Call to Action – What Can You Do?
• Educate yourself about ageism—This fact sheet provides several key messages and talking points.
• Gather a group of people and watch Ashton Applewhite’s TED Talk: Let’s End Ageism. This can be done at a senior center, at a committee meeting, in someone’s home, etc. Invite younger folks to watch it, too.
• Share personal stories whenever possible. Human interest stories are important.
• Post about the day on Social Media, representing aging in a positive light and explaining why it matters. (We will have posts shared on ALTCEW’s Facebook for anyone who would like to share!)
About the American Society 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 www.asaging.org.
