Do you know how you can be proactive about ageism? It starts with coming out of denial about the problem and taking small steps.
Let’s start with a quiz.
According to Alison Bryant of AARP, “almost half of the population is over 50 but older adults are only shown in ___ of [media] images”
A. 15%
B. 25%
C. 35%
D. 40%
Media researcher George Gerbner found viewers perceived older people as ____ (check all that apply)
A. Absentminded
B. Befuddled
C. Childlike
D. Close-minded
E. Comical
F. Feeble
G. In poor shape financially
H. Inefficient
I. Inferior to youth
J. Irrational
K. Out of touch with reality
L. Physically unfit
M. Repulsive
Sooner or later, we will all experience ageism. Be proactive about ageism today by being saddened that the answers to the quiz are 15% and All of the above. Here are some ways of being more proactive about this issue.
Notice and raise awareness about ageism
Talk about bias comments like “s/he is over the hill,” they are having a “senior moment,” or “you look younger than your years” (even if it is true). Remove these expressions from your own vocabulary.
See others as unique individuals
Don’t use age as a determining category. Find each person’s strengths, skills, and values. Share your common joys and experiences.
Advocate for intergenerational collaboration at work
We all need each other. Your skills and experience as an older employee combined with a different perspective on “the way things are done” of a younger employee are both assets.
Accept that we all age
The aging process begins the day we are born and continues until the day we die. Because it is unavoidable, we shouldn’t fight it and we shouldn’t judge ourselves or others. Each age has its own challenges.
Be willing to learn and grow
Things change with the times (just think of telephones in your lifetime). Develop a life-long learner mentality and keep adding fresh, new ideas and skills in both your personal and your professional life.
Celebrate the positive aspects of aging
The struggle to get ahead is almost over. You have your education. You have climbed one or more career ladders. You are more than good enough. Celebrate your accomplishments.
Be a role model to others
Live your life to the fullest. Be an inspiration to both young and old. Create a legacy for those you love and care for. Include in that legacy ways you will be proactive about ageism until age doesn’t matter anymore.