Looking for --- in all the wrong plaes

Here are some search sites that could be useful to searchers, especially those focusing on books, science, and other specialized information:

1.   www.refseek.com

o    What it does: RefSeek is an academic search engine designed for students and researchers. It indexes over a billion sources, including encyclopedias, monographs, magazines, and academic papers. It simplifies the process of finding credible information by filtering out non-academic content.

o    Use case: Ideal for students and researchers looking for authoritative sources without the clutter of commercial or non-scholarly results.

2.   www.worldcat.org

o    What it does: WorldCat is a global catalog of library collections, connecting users to the holdings of over 20,000 libraries worldwide. It helps locate rare books, journals, and other materials, and even shows the nearest library where an item is available.

o    Use case: Perfect for finding physical copies of rare or hard-to-find books and resources.

3.   https://link.springer.com

o    What it does: SpringerLink provides access to over 10 million scientific documents, including books, journal articles, and research protocols. It covers a wide range of disciplines, from engineering to social sciences.

o    Use case: A go-to resource for researchers and academics seeking peer-reviewed scientific content.

4.   www.bioline.org.br

o    What it does: Bioline International is a digital library specializing in bioscience journals published in developing countries. It provides free access to high-quality research that might otherwise be overlooked.

o    Use case: Valuable for researchers in the life sciences, particularly those interested in global health and biodiversity.

5.   http://repec.org

o    What it does: RePEc (Research Papers in Economics) is a collaborative effort by volunteers from 102 countries to collect and share nearly 4 million publications on economics and related fields.

o    Use case: Essential for economists, policymakers, and social scientists looking for working papers, articles, and datasets.

6.   www.science.gov

o    What it does: Science.gov is a U.S. government search engine that indexes over 2,200 scientific websites and databases. It provides access to more than 200 million articles, reports, and datasets from federal agencies.

o    Use case: A comprehensive resource for researchers seeking U.S. government-funded scientific research.

7.   www.base-search.net

o    What it does: BASE (Bielefeld Academic Search Engine) is one of the most powerful search tools for academic texts, indexing over 100 million scientific documents. Approximately 70% of these documents are freely accessible.

o    Use case: Excellent for open-access research across a wide range of disciplines.

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Additional Sites for Searchers:

1.   www.core.ac.uk

o    What it does: CORE aggregates open-access research outputs from repositories and journals worldwide. It provides access to millions of scholarly articles, with a focus on making research freely available.

o    Use case: Ideal for researchers looking for open-access papers across all disciplines.

2.   PubMed

o    What it does: The most comprehensive search engine for medical and life sciences literature, hosted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. It includes millions of research articles, clinical studies, and systematic reviews.

o    Use case: provides up to date and reliable information on medical issues.

3.   JSTOR

o    What it does: A digital library offering access to thousands of academic journals, books, and primary sources across humanities, social sciences, and sciences.

o    Use case: While not all content is free, JSTOR provides a valuable free-access program for individuals.

4.   Google Scholar

o    What it does: A widely used academic search engine that indexes scholarly articles, theses, books, conference papers, and patents.

o    Use case: It helps users track citations and access full-text articles when available.

5.   ArXiv

o    What it does: A free distribution service for research in physics, mathematics, computer science, quantitative biology, and related disciplines.

o    Use case: Many papers are available before formal peer review, making it an excellent source for cutting-edge research.

6.   www.doaaj.org (Directory of Open Access Journals)

o    What it does: DOAJ is a community-curated directory that indexes high-quality, peer-reviewed open-access journals. It covers a wide range of subjects and ensures that all listed journals meet strict quality standards.

o    Use case: A trusted resource for finding reputable open-access journals.

7.   www.eric.ed.gov

o    What it does: ERIC (Education Resources Information Center) is a U.S. government database focused on education research. It includes journal articles, reports, and other resources related to teaching and learning.

o    Use case: Essential for educators, policymakers, and students in the field of education.

8.   www.jstor.org

o    What it does: JSTOR is a digital library offering access to thousands of academic journals, books, and primary sources. While some content is behind a paywall, many institutions provide free access to their members.

o    Use case: A must-use resource for humanities and social sciences researchers.

9.   www.arxiv.org

o    What it does: arXiv is a preprint repository for research papers in physics, mathematics, computer science, and related fields. It allows researchers to share their findings before formal peer review.

o    Use case: Great for staying up-to-date with cutting-edge research in STEM fields.

Keep a List of Sites You’ve Never Heard Of!

·         If you come across search engines that you haven’t heard of before, consider keeping a list and testing their usefulness. Many niche search engines provide access to specialized information that may not appear in standard search results. Always be on the lookout for niche or lesser-known resources. For example:

• www.digitalpubliclibraryofamerica.org (DPLA): A portal to millions of digitized materials from U.S. libraries, archives, and museums.
• www.europeana.eu: A digital library of European cultural heritage, including art, manuscripts, and historical documents.
• www.trove.nla.gov.au: An Australian database of books, images, newspapers, and archives.
• www.ssrn.com: A repository for preprints in the social sciences and humanities.
• www.osti.gov: The U.S. Department of Energy’s portal for scientific and technical information.

By exploring these resources, searchers can uncover a wealth of information that might not be easily accessible through mainstream search engines.

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.

Ageism

 Ageism—discrimination based on age—affects many people, especially seniors. It shows up in everyday conversations, workplace policies, and even how older adults are represented in the media. Understanding and reducing ageism isn’t just a societal need; it’s something we can all contribute to, whether we’re navigating retirement ourselves or supporting someone who is. Thankfully, there are ways to tackle ageism that have been carefully studied and proven to work. Let’s explore these strategies in an easy-to-follow and engaging way.

One of the most powerful tools in reducing ageism is education. When people learn about the realities of aging, they often realize how much of what they believe about older adults simply isn’t true. For instance, there’s a common stereotype that seniors are less capable of learning new things. In reality, older adults are constantly adapting, whether by mastering new technology, learning new hobbies, or even pursuing second careers. When these examples are shared through education programs, they help dismantle outdated ideas about aging.

But education alone isn’t enough. Pairing it with opportunities for younger and older generations to interact can make a real difference. Picture this: a group of high school students and retirees collaborating on a community garden. The students bring energy and fresh ideas, while the retirees offer wisdom, practical know-how, and patience. Through projects like this, both groups discover strengths they didn’t know the other had, and perceptions naturally shift. It’s not just about breaking down barriers; it’s about building mutual respect.

Let’s make this personal. Think about a time when you felt underestimated because of your age, whether you were "too young" or "too old" for something. That frustration you felt is what many older adults experience regularly. By fostering understanding and meaningful connections, we can create a world where age doesn’t define someone’s value or capabilities.

It’s also worth noting that small, everyday actions can help reduce ageism. Advocating for fair treatment, challenging stereotypes when you hear them, and sharing your own stories as an older adult are all ways to make a difference. Imagine telling a younger colleague about a skill you recently learned, or sharing how you’ve stayed active and engaged in retirement. These personal anecdotes can open minds and hearts in ways that statistics never could.

The good news is, attitudes about aging are changing, but the shift needs all of us. Whether it’s joining a program that connects generations or simply sharing your experiences to challenge stereotypes, every effort counts. Together, we can create a society that values people of all ages for who they are and what they contribute.

If you’re retired or helping someone who’s thinking about retirement, remember that you have the power to help reshape how society views aging. It starts with learning, connecting, and showing the world what aging with purpose and dignity really looks like.

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.