Shining a Light on Ageism: Questions and Answers about Ageism Awareness Day with Lynette Killen
Wednesday, October 9th, 2024, marks Ageism Awareness Day, an important opportunity to bring attention to the often-overlooked issue of age discrimination. As a society, we frequently underestimate the value and contributions of older adults, which can lead to harmful stereotypes, exclusion, and missed opportunities for engagement. At The Sarah Ralston Foundation, supporting the well-being and dignity of older adults is central to our mission. In recognition of Ageism Awareness Day, we sat down with Lynette Killen, Executive Director of the Sarah Ralston Foundation, to discuss the challenges of ageism, the Foundation’s efforts to combat it, and how we can work together to ensure that older adults are treated with respect and dignity.
Why is Ageism Awareness Day important, and how does it align with our mission?
One of our guiding principles is to practice, support, and facilitate anti-ageist beliefs, principles, and actions. Ageism Awareness Day shines a spotlight on these values, reinforcing our commitment to promoting respect for older adults and combating harmful stereotypes.
What are some common misconceptions that contribute to the problem of ageism?
There are several misconceptions that perpetuate ageism:
The idea that elders are frail and sick, creating a burden on family and society.
The belief that elders cannot contribute economically.
The notion that elders do not fit into our youth-oriented culture.
These misconceptions ignore the vast contributions older adults continue to make to society.
How does ageism affect older adults?
Ageism can have widespread negative effects on older adults, including diminished economic impact at both macro and micro levels, limited community participation, reduced access to healthcare, and poor social connections. It can also lead to missed opportunities for engagement and growth within society.
Do we support any programs that directly combat ageism?
While we don’t directly support anti-ageism programs, many of our grantee partners recognize the value of lifting up elders and supporting them in meaningful ways.
What role can we as individuals play in combating ageism?
Language is key—how we speak about and to older adults matters. We should be intentional about calling out ageist comments and visuals, such as the stereotypical “little old lady” used in certain advertisements. By changing the way we talk about aging, we can challenge ageist perceptions and stereotypes.
What advice would you give someone who wants to become more aware of ageism?
Per the American Society on Aging, it’s important to explore cross-cultural views of aging and examine how aging is portrayed at individual, community, and national levels. This can open up more positive and diverse perspectives on aging.
What can The Sarah Ralston Foundation do to combat ageism?
As a foundation, we can serve as good ambassadors by using social media and visual platforms to challenge profiling and promote positive representation of older adults in the arts and media. Additionally, we can recognize our grantee partners who exemplify best practices in how they converse with and serve elders.
Ageism Awareness Day is a powerful reminder that older adults are vital contributors to our communities, and we all have a role to play in challenging ageist attitudes and stereotypes. Through our ongoing efforts and partnerships, the Sarah Ralston Foundation remains committed to promoting dignity, respect, and opportunity for older adults. Join us in recognizing the value of every generation and working toward a more inclusive, age-friendly society.
Day, an important opportunity to bring attention to the often-overlooked issue of age discrimination. As a society, we frequently underestimate the value and contributions of older adults, which can lead to harmful stereotypes, exclusion, and missed opportunities for engagement. At The Sarah Ralston Foundation, supporting the well-being and dignity of older adults is central to our mission. In recognition of Ageism Awareness Day, we sat down with Lynette Killen, Executive Director of the Sarah Ralston Foundation, to discuss the challenges of ageism, the Foundation’s efforts to combat it, and how we can work together to ensure that older adults are treated with respect and dignity.