Fighting Ageism a big picture approach.

 Fighting ageism requires a big-picture approach, one that touches on individuals, workplaces, and society as a whole. This isn’t just about fairness—it’s about creating a world where people of all ages can thrive, contribute, and feel valued. Whether you’re retired, preparing for retirement, or supporting someone who is, you have a role to play in reducing ageism. Let’s break down some proven strategies and how they make a difference.

Laws that protect against age discrimination are a key piece of the puzzle. For example, in the United States, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) ensures that older workers are protected from being unfairly treated simply because of their age. Picture this scenario: an experienced employee in their 60s is passed over for a promotion in favour of a younger, less-qualified candidate based on the assumption that older people are less adaptable. Laws like the ADEA step in to challenge such prejudices and ensure fairness. But laws are only effective when people understand and use them. If you or someone you know faces discrimination, knowing your rights is the first step in standing up against it.

Globally, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are taking a stand against ageism. They run campaigns that challenge stereotypes and encourage societies to celebrate age diversity. Think of these campaigns as a rallying call for fairness, shining a spotlight on the contributions older adults make to their families, communities, and workplaces. You might have seen ads that feature active, vibrant seniors breaking outdated moulds, or you might have heard stories of older entrepreneurs starting businesses in their 70s or beyond. These stories are powerful because they rewrite the narrative around aging.

On a more personal level, encouraging connections between younger and older generations can be a game-changer. When people from different age groups spend time together, they often discover shared interests and learn to appreciate each other’s perspectives. For instance, imagine a local tech workshop where younger volunteers help older adults learn to use smartphones and computers. While the seniors gain confidence in using technology, the younger helpers often leave with a newfound respect for the determination and curiosity of their older peers. These interactions help break down stereotypes and build mutual respect.

Reducing ageism isn’t just about changing laws or running global campaigns—it’s also about changing hearts and minds. One way to do this is by sharing your own stories and experiences. If you’ve faced age-related challenges but overcame them, your story can inspire others and show that age doesn’t define capability or value.

Ultimately, fighting ageism is a team effort. By supporting fair policies, participating in intergenerational programs, and speaking out against stereotypes, you can help create a world where people are valued for who they are—not the number on their birth certificate. Every step you take, big or small, makes a difference in building a more inclusive society.

Understanding and Tackling Ageism in Canada: A personal view

Ageism is one of the most pervasive forms of discrimination in Canada and around the world. Yet, its impact often goes unnoticed or is seen  as a natural part of aging. This post draws from skilled insights and the latest research to highlight the challenges ageism presents and explore meaningful ways to combat it.

In a recent 2024 IPSOS survey conducted by the Canadian Coalition Against Ageism (CCAA), troubling trends emerged regarding how Canadians perceive and experience ageism. While more than half of Canadians (54%) are familiar with the concept of ageism, 87% do not recognize how widespread it is. This is alarming, considering that half of the global population harbors ageist attitudes.

For example, how often have we heard someone say, "You’re too old to understand technology," or seen older workers passed over for promotions because younger employees are deemed more "dynamic"? These instances are so commonplace they are often not seen as discriminatory, but they perpetuate stereotypes and limit opportunities for older adults.

The survey also revealed that 64% of Canadians recognize the harm age discrimination inflicts on mental and physical health. Persistent stereotypes—such as assuming older adults are frail, unproductive, or unwilling to adapt—can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Imagine a retired professional being dismissed as "out of touch" when seeking volunteer roles or community involvement. This subtle exclusion can erode confidence, fostering feelings of worthlessness and further disengagement.

Healthcare is one area where the consequences of ageism can be particularly devastating. Biases among healthcare providers sometimes result in older patients being dismissed or treated differently than younger ones. For instance, a senior complaining of persistent pain might be told, “It’s just part of getting older,” rather than being referred for further diagnostic tests. Similarly, older patients often receive fewer aggressive treatments for conditions like cancer or heart disease, based on assumptions about their "quality of life" or ability to recover.

Addressing these biases starts with raising awareness among healthcare professionals and implementing mandatory training programs. For example, hospitals and clinics can use case studies highlighting the dangers of dismissive attitudes to ensure providers prioritize symptoms over stereotypes. Additionally, involving older adults in inpatient advisory boards can help healthcare systems design services that truly meet their needs.

Beyond the healthcare system, ageism imposes a broader societal cost. Only 44% of Canadians recognize the economic impact of age discrimination, which can include sidelining experienced workers or overlooking older entrepreneurs. This limits the contributions of a population with immense knowledge and expertise.

Moreover, self-ageism—reported by 31% of survey respondents—compounds these challenges. When individuals internalize negative beliefs about aging, they might avoid pursuing new opportunities, assuming, “It’s too late for me to start something new.” Such attitudes can lead to reduced physical activity, diminished social connections, and poorer health outcomes.

In response to the survey findings, the CCAA and International Longevity Centre Canada (ILC) identified four key initiatives at a June 2024 conference in Ottawa. These priorities aim to create a more inclusive society and support older adults in living fulfilling lives:

1. Health Care Must Change
   To ensure older adults receive equitable care, healthcare systems must actively combat biases. For example, encouraging providers to use age-neutral language—like asking "How can we help you thrive?" instead of "What aches and pains are you dealing with?"—can shift perspectives. Programs such as the Geriatric Emergency Medicine Initiative in British Columbia, which trains emergency staff to meet the unique needs of older patients, offer models for nationwide implementation.
2. Education is Critical
   Incorporating ageism education in schools and workplaces can challenge stereotypes before they take root. For instance, interactive workshops where students and older adults collaborate on projects—such as oral history interviews—can highlight the value of lived experiences and reduce prejudice. Similarly, workplace seminars addressing the benefits of age diversity can foster inclusive practices.
3. Intergenerational Connection
   Bridging generational gaps is key to breaking down stereotypes. Programs like “Adopt a Grandparent” in Toronto pair seniors with younger volunteers, fostering meaningful relationships and mutual understanding. These initiatives show younger generations that aging is a natural and valuable phase of life, not a decline.
4. Nothing About Us Without Us
   Older adults must actively participate in decisions that affect their lives. Organizations like the Manitoba Seniors Advocate ensure that seniors’ voices guide provincial policies and programs. Including older people on advisory councils or as keynote speakers at conferences brings their lived expertise to the forefront, ensuring that solutions are both practical and impactful.

Fighting ageism is not just a matter of fairness; it’s essential for creating a society that values all its members, regardless of age. Whether you are retired, preparing for retirement, or supporting older adults, understanding the nuances of ageism can empower you to advocate for change. By addressing biases in healthcare, fostering education, and promoting intergenerational connections, we can work toward a future where aging is celebrated—not stigmatized.

 

Ageing in Place Spiritual Wellness

Aging in place with grace involves understanding and embracing six key dimensions of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and vocational. Each dimension plays an integral role in fostering a balanced, meaningful life for seniors and those who care for them.

Spiritual Wellness

Spirituality provides comfort, purpose, and resilience. Whether through religious practices, meditation, or connecting with nature, spirituality helps seniors find peace and meaning. For instance, daily meditation can reduce stress, while attending faith-based gatherings strengthens community ties.

Resources such as the Calm app provide guided meditations, while GriefShare supports those processing loss and seeking spiritual healing.

Spirituality often carries a deeply personal meaning, and it doesn’t have to be tied to religion to offer comfort, purpose, and resilience. It’s about connecting with something larger than yourself, whether that’s through quiet reflection, meaningful rituals, or simply finding awe in the beauty of life. For some of us, embracing even the idea of spirituality can be a profound way to find peace and create a sense of purpose, especially during life’s transitions.

Think about how calming it feels to sit in a quiet place, taking in the stillness around you. That’s the essence of meditation—a simple practice of being present with yourself. It doesn’t require belief in anything beyond the here and now, but the effects can be transformative. Taking just a few minutes each day to meditate can help reduce stress, improve focus, and bring a sense of calm that spills over into other areas of life.

If meditation isn’t your thing, spirituality can also be found in nature. Imagine standing beneath a canopy of trees, feeling the sunlight on your face, or hearing the gentle rustle of leaves. Moments like these remind us of the bigger picture and our place within it. Spending time outdoors, whether it’s walking in a park or sitting in your garden, can be a grounding and uplifting experience, offering both clarity and connection.

For those who find value in community, faith-based gatherings, or even non-religious groups that focus on shared values, can offer a wonderful sense of belonging. It’s not necessarily about adopting a specific set of beliefs but rather finding strength in the act of coming together with others who are navigating similar paths. These connections often bring comfort and joy, creating bonds that uplift and support.

The beauty of spirituality is its flexibility, it meets you where you are. You don’t have to follow a particular doctrine or practice to benefit from its gifts. It could be as simple as journaling your thoughts, focusing on gratitude, or spending a few minutes each day appreciating the wonder of life’s little moments. The goal is to nurture a sense of peace and purpose in a way that feels authentic to you.

By opening yourself up to these possibilities, you’re not just exploring new ways to enrich your life—you’re also giving yourself tools to handle life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Whether it’s through quiet reflection, meaningful rituals, or connecting with the world around you, spirituality can become a source of strength and serenity, helping you age with peace and meaning.

Solo Ageing

 American and Canadian society rests on an assumption that families take care of their own, When seniors living alone have no close family, can non-family helpers be an adequate substitute? The reason I thought about this is my sister-in-law just lost her husband and is living alone, and another friend, is in the same boat. As winter swirls around us, I thought about how we could help what help they could receive from other sources.

While family often provides a safety net, non-family helpers can step in to fill critical gaps when no close relatives are available. Here are a few key questions solo agers need to consider do you have any answers to the questions: Who will be there for them, for matters large and small? Who will help them navigate the ever more complex healthcare system and advocate on their behalf? Who will take out the garbage if it becomes too difficult to carry? Who will shovel the snow if a winter storm blows through?

Here are some potential answers and strategies for the questions raised:

Who will be there for them, for matters large and small?
Solo agers can create a "chosen family" of trusted friends, neighbours, or community members who are willing to step in. Building a support network through local senior organizations, hobby groups, or even faith-based communities can provide emotional and practical support. Look into local churches, synagogues, or other places of worship that offer social programs and support for seniors. Professional caregivers or companions can also be hired to ensure that someone is available for regular check-ins and small tasks. Consider joining local senior centers, community organizations, or volunteer groups that align with your interests. These can provide a sense of belonging and connection. Online platforms like Meetup.com or Facebook Groups can help you connect with others who share similar interests or experiences.

Who will help them navigate the ever more complex health care system and advocate on their behalf?
Solo agers may benefit from hiring a professional patient advocate or care manager who specializes in navigating healthcare systems and coordinating care. Some nonprofit organizations and government programs also offer support services to seniors. Research local non-profit organizations that provide health care navigation services, such as the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a.org) or the National Council on Aging (ncoa.org). Designating a trusted person, whether a lawyer, friend, or volunteer or consider hiring a geriatric care manager or a social worker who can help with health care coordination and advocacy. They can serve as a healthcare proxy. A power of attorney is essential to ensure that your wishes are respected and acted upon. Look into local hospitals or health systems that offer patient advocacy programs or support services.

Who will take out the garbage if it becomes too difficult to carry?
This issue can often be solved with a combination of community and professional resources. Many municipalities offer services for seniors and people with disabilities, such as assisted garbage collection. Additionally, hiring a part-time helper for household chores or enlisting the assistance of a neighbour in exchange for small gestures of appreciation can address this need. Consider hiring a local handyman or home maintenance service to help with tasks like trash removal, snow shovelling, or yard work.

Look into local senior-focused organizations that offer home maintenance and repair services, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Aging in Place program. Finally, reach out to neighbours or friends who may be willing to lend a helping hand.

Who will shovel the snow if a winter storm blows through?
Many communities have volunteer programs where people help seniors with snow removal, particularly in areas prone to harsh winters. For example, local youth groups, faith organizations, or city-sponsored volunteer networks may offer these services. Alternatively, solo agers can hire a snow removal service or collaborate with neighbours to share resources like a plowing service. Consider hiring a local snow removal service or a handyman who can help with snow shovelling and other winter tasks. Look into local senior-focused organizations that offer snow removal services, such as the National Council on Aging's (NCOA) Snow Removal Program. Reach out to neighbours or friends who may be willing to help with snow removal.

These scenarios highlight the importance of proactive planning. Solo agers can thrive with the right mix of resources, relationships, and professional services, but these arrangements require thoughtful preparation and community engagement. Society as a whole also has a role in ensuring that systems and programs are in place to support those without traditional family structures.

To find reliable local connections, consider the following:

Attend local events, such as senior fairs, health fairs, or community gatherings, to meet new people and learn about local resources. Join online forums or social media groups focused on senior issues or local communities. Reach out to local senior centers, community organizations, or places of worship to ask about their programs and services. Consider hiring a professional organizer or a senior move manager who can help you declutter, downsize, and connect with local resources.

Remember, building a community of support takes time and effort. Be patient, persistent, and open-minded, and you'll increase your chances of finding reliable non-family helpers to support your solo aging journey.

How Individuals Perceive Their Age

Subjective age goes beyond the mere passing of time—it's a complex interplay of various factors that shape how we perceive ourselves concerning our age.

From our physical health and mental well-being to our lifestyle choices, numerous elements come into play. An active and healthy lifestyle may lead some individuals to feel younger than their chronological age. Health issues or major life events might have the opposite effect on others.

Moreover, our personal beliefs, attitudes, and mindsets play a significant role in shaping our subjective age. Positive self-perceptions and a youthful mindset can contribute to feeling younger, while negative beliefs and a pessimistic attitude might make us feel older than we are.

Subjective age is shaped by an individual's perception of themselves and their age-related experiences. It considers factors such as physical health, mental well-being, and lifestyle choices. For example, someone who leads an active and healthy lifestyle may perceive themselves as younger than their actual age, while someone who has experienced health issues or major life events may feel older.

Subjective age can significantly impact our mental and physical well-being. Research suggests that individuals who perceive themselves as younger than their chronological age tend to have better overall health and higher levels of well-being. Positive subjective age perceptions have been associated with reduced risk of mental health issues, improved cognitive function, and better physical health outcomes. Embracing a more positive and youthful subjective age can contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling aging process.

Personal beliefs and attitudes also play a significant role in subjective age. Factors such as self-perception, body image, and mindset can shape how someone perceives their age. Positive beliefs and a youthful mindset can contribute to a younger subjective age, while negative beliefs and a pessimistic attitude can make someone feel older than they are. This highlights the subjective nature of age and how it is influenced by individual experiences and perspectives.

 

Healthy Ageing 2

 In a previous statement, I said, "So, I guess those of us who have made it to or seventies can congratulate ourselves. By one measure anyway, we are successful agers!" Upon further reflection, I realized that this statement may or may not hold true. The definition of successful aging may vary from person to person, but if we define it as supporting one's physical and mental wellbeing to live their life as desired, then we can agree on what successful aging entails.

From an individual perspective, successful aging leads to a better quality of life. There are three primary components of successful aging, namely "absence of disease and disease-related disability," "maintenance of high mental and physical function," and "continued engagement with life," determine the level of successful aging achieved.

On a national level, healthy aging is crucial due to the associated costs. The issue of long-term care has always been a crucial aspect of policymaking for fulfilling the care needs of the elderly. The shift in care focus, due to increased life expectancy and delayed health decline, has led to a combination of social behavior and long-term care (known as 'Active Aging') in some countries, such as those in the European Union. Engaging in different aspects of social, professional, and family life, including paid work, community activities, residential care, and leisure activities, promotes healthy aging. A harmonious relationship between life and activities can improve health and well-being in old age.

There are some theories of successful ageing that make sense to me, Continuity Theory and Activity Theory. Continuity Theory suggests that older adults use past experiences to preserve and maintain existing internal and external structures. Change is tied to past experiences, producing continuity in inner psychological characteristics and social behavior. The Activity Theory proposes that older adults are happiest when they maintain social interactions and stay active, especially in meaningful activities that help replace lost life roles after retirement.

Scientists have linked social isolation and loneliness to a negative impact on our quality of life as we age, emphasizing the importance of regular social interactions, especially for older adults. A support system as we grow older allows us to better cope and work through challenges as we enter later life, leading to better emotional wellness. Regular, moderate exercise plays a vital role in the aging process, and Activity Theory highlights the importance of maintaining an engaged, active lifestyle.

In conclusion, prioritizing relationships and activities that make one happy are essential for successful ageing. The definition of successful aging may vary, but maintaining physical and mental well-being and engaging in meaningful activities can lead to a better quality of life, both individually and nationally.