Celebrate Ageing, Challenge Ageism

Challenge Ageism, Celebrate Ageing is the Federation Ageing Well Committee’s online campaign to raise awareness about ageism. The committee hopes to start the conversation about growing older in the Federation Council looks like and by doing this help change public attitudes towards older people and their rights to fully participate and engage in community. 

What is Ageism?

Ageism means treating someone unfairly just because of their age. It’s embedded in our society and even accepted as normal by those of us who are older. It includes:

• Stereotyping (how we think),
• Prejudice (how we feel), and
• Discrimination (how we act).

We are exposed to casual ageism every day in the media, on TV, and on social media. We hear it at work, when out shopping, when seeking medical assistance and in family conversations. Ageism is often dismissed as being harmless, but research shows that ageism has devastating impacts on physical and mental health, longevity, prospects and participation opportunities. Ageism is understood to be a key driver of elder abuse and is the most accepted form of prejudice in Australia (Source: EveryAgeCounts.org.au).

Challenging Ageism begins with awareness

The Federation Ageing Well Committee has created a video explaining what ageism is and how it impacts us. 

Locals Celebrating Ageing, Challenging Ageism 

Three of the Ageing Well Committee members, Ann Nicol of Corowa, Mike Gardiner of Howlong, and Liz Seeliger of Mulwala agreed to share their personal stories and experiences that challenge the common stereotypes of ageing.