Ending Ageism

Ageism  is ingrained in our society. Though it’s technically illegal, age bias can be hard to prove and the law is currently hard to enforce. But the impact on older adults is real. It affects our livelihood, our financial security, our options and our self-respect. It even affects our health. Ageism results in $63 billion in added healthcare costs each year. It costs the economy $850 billion in lost GDP. And it shortens the lives of those most affected by 7.5 years.

But there ARE things we as individuals can do about ageism. The resources below, created by members and friends of The Encore Network, will help you take actions that will make a difference for you and for others.

BOOKS

This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism   Written by Ashton Applewhite, this book tackles the challenge of ageism myth by myth, showing why the attitudes and actions built into our culture are not just wrong but damaging.

Breaking the Age Code   This book by Yale professor Becca Levy is subtitled “How Your Beliefs About Aging Determine How Long and How Well You Live.” Her research shows how changing your beliefs can actually affect your genes and extend your life expectancy.

Ageism Unmasked   Gerontologist Tracy Gendron explains how cultural norms and unconscious prejudices have seeped into our lives, shaping our treatment of others and our own misconceptions about aging, and about ourselves. She also shows how we can change.

TOOLS

Guidelines for Age-Inclusive Communication   This guide provides tips on words to use and avoid, how to write in a way that stays free of ageist tropes, and other useful info. Includes style guides for journalists and others.

Internalized Ageism   This campaign, organized by Changing the Narrative, offers insight into how we turn negative portrayals and beliefs about age against ourselves, sometimes without realizing it. Also included is info about what we can do about it.

Intergenerational Conversations   One of the best ways to end ageism is to talk about it. Better yet, talk about it with people of other ages. This toolkit gives you everything you need to prepare for and hold an event you won’t soon forget.

Anti-Ageist Birthday Cards   Many birthday cards are blatantly ageist. They reflect societal attitudes about age and aging, but may hide behind humor. If you’re looking for cards that present a more upbeat message about age and aging, consider these.

PROGRAMS

Reframing Aging   Led by Janine Vanderburg, this workshop identifies the words, behaviors and actions that reflect ageism in our society, the harm they cause, and the steps we can take to avoid or challenge them.