Use Language That Is Inclusive and Free of Age Bias
Words carry powerful associations. When discussing older individuals, opt for terms like "older person" or "older adult" instead of terms like "senior citizen" or "elderly," which can perpetuate negative stereotypes. For example, replacing "aging dependents" with more neutral terms like "older individuals" promotes inclusivity.
Avoid: "Seniors," "elderly," "aging dependents," and "the aged."
Advance: "Drivers ages 50 to 65" or "drivers ages 75 and older."
Example:
"This study describes characteristics in a sample of African American women, 75 to 95 years of age, diagnosed with arthritis."
Talk Affirmatively About Changing
Demographics
Emphasize the positive aspects of increased life expectancy. Instead of using terms like "silver tsunami" or "graying of the population," highlight opportunities for intergenerational exchanges and contributions from older individuals. For instance, phrase demographic changes as "Americans living longer and healthier lives."
Avoid: "Age wave," "silver tsunami," and "graying of the population."
Advance: "While Americans live longer and healthier lives."
Examples:
"With changing demographics come more
opportunities for older people to contribute to our communities."
"The increasing number of older people
means more possibilities for intergenerational exchanges."
Emphasize Collective Responsibility and
Social Context
Challenge the notion that aging outcomes are solely the result of individual choices. Instead, underscore the interconnectedness of individuals and advocate for collective actions and policy-level solutions to improve the lives of all as they age. For example, avoid terms like "choice" and "control" and replace them with ideas about collective responsibility.
Avoid: "Choice," "planning," and "control."
Advance: "Let’s find creative solutions to ensure we can all thrive as we age."
Examples:
"To build a more just society, we need to take steps to prevent social isolation of any group, including older people."
"If we want to live up to our ideal of
a just society, then that means taking steps to make sure all individuals, no
matter their age, are treated as equal members of our communities."
Talk About Aging as a Dynamic Process That
Can Benefit Society
Frame aging as a continuous process of growth and change, emphasizing the positive aspects of accumulated wisdom and experiences. Avoid conflict-oriented words like "struggle" and "battle." Instead, highlight aging as a dynamic process that brings new aspirations and abilities.
Avoid: "Struggle," "battle," and similar terms.
Advance: "Aging is a dynamic process that leads to new aspirations, abilities, and knowledge that older people can share."
Examples:
"As we age, we accumulate wisdom, insights, and rich experiences."
"Our communities are better when they
include the full scope of our energy, including the contributions of older
people."
Always Define Ageism When You Use the Term
Ensure clarity by defining ageism whenever the term is used. Provide concrete examples to help people understand the impact of ageism on health and society. For instance, avoid using the word ageism without explaining its meaning.
Avoid: Using the word ageism without explanation.
Advance: Define ageism and provide an example.
Examples:
"Ageism is discrimination against older people due to negative and inaccurate stereotypes, and it has a significant impact on health."
"Ageism (discrimination based on age)
affects three out of five workers, according to AARP."
Include Concrete, Systems-Level Solutions
Offer tangible solutions to combat fatalism and promote the idea that issues related to aging can be addressed. Provide examples of programs and policies that support a thriving aging society. Avoid generic appeals to "do something" without offering specific solutions.
Avoid Generic appeals without concrete solutions.
Advance: "Intergenerational community centers help turn the experiences and wisdom older people have accrued over a lifetime into a resource that helps power our neighborhoods."
Examples:
"Employers should review their hiring practices to avoid discriminating against applicants based on age."
"To build a more just society, we need
to take steps to prevent social isolation of any group, including older
people."
Incorporate the Concepts of Justice and
Ingenuity
Introduce the concepts of "justice" and "ingenuity" to foster a more complete and accurate understanding of aging. Shift the narrative from "Us versus Them" to emphasize aging as an opportunity and the need for systemic solutions.
Avoid: Starting communication with less effective messaging.
Advance: Start communication with justice or ingenuity.
Examples:
"As our population ages, we can tap into the innovation and can-do attitude that Americans are known for to address the challenges that come with this changing demographic."
"As a society that values justice, we
should strive to ensure that everyone has access to the services they need in
the settings they choose."
Thanks to Reframing Ageism for the ideas for more ideas go to https://www.reframingaging.org/
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