Understanding Aging and Ageism

Key Concepts

Aging Population

• Everyone is part of the aging population; aging is universal.
• Aging ≠ old. Aging happens to all of us regardless of age.

Chronological Age vs Subjective Age

• Subjective age: feeling younger or older than one's actual age.
• The sentiment "you're only as old as you feel" is common but misguided.

Misconceptions About Aging

• Age Expectations: Our expectations for aging come from misconceptions.
• Horny Teenager Comparison: Learning about aging is like a teenager learning about sex; full of half-truths and misconceptions.

Factors Influencing Aging

• Aging is personal: geographic location, habits, race, gender, education are factors.
• People age uniquely, even if aging has common aspects.

Understanding and Combatting Ageism

• Definition: Stereotyping/discriminating based on age.
  • Directed at both older and younger individuals.
• Self-directed Ageism: Fear or shame of aging.
• Importance of Growth: Aging involves both decline and growth.
• Aging doesn’t stop growth; people develop new skills and grow comfortable in their own skin.

Aging and Self-perception

• Old and young have simple definitions:
  • Old: Existed for a long time.
  • Young: Existed for a short time.
• Stereotypes about youth and old age are problematic and conflicting.

Changing Mindsets

• *Actions we can take:
  • Don't project current self onto future self: Interests and happiness change over time.
  • Be a role model for aging: Accept your age proudly, challenge stereotypes, avoid patronizing language.
  • Reject stereotypes about age-related political, social views.

Final Thoughts

• Little actions towards accepting and reframing our views on aging can lead to societal change.
• Acknowledging and embracing true age helps foster a healthier perspective on aging.

Group Activity/Takeaway

• Embrace your age by saying it out loud. (Example: "1, 2, 3... 53!")