Anglicare news - Ageism
Hurtful and divisive
Stereotypes and assumptions about people who are seen as different from us can be hurtful and divisive.
Negative images of and language about older people being helpless, dependent and unable to make a useful contribution to the community are widespread and destructive, despite the passage of a decade since the International Year of Older Persons with its uplifting theme ‘Towards a society for all ages’ and many subsequent health promotion campaigns and positive ageing programs.
Ageism is deeply ingrained, not least within older people themselves, and often acts as a brake on people participating in life to the fullest, whatever their age.
Anglicare’s research suggests that ageism, like all prejudices, influences the self view and behaviour of its victims. Older people tend to adopt negative definitions of themselves and perpetuate the very stereotypes directed against them, thereby reinforcing society’s beliefs.
As people live longer and fuller lives, negative views of ageing and old age are being replaced by concepts of older people and ageing that emphasise alternatives and choices.
Anglicare is encouraging all the Anglicare agencies across Australia to make a commitment to ensuring that older people are involved in planning and giving advice on how to deliver services – we need to draw on the knowledge and skills of older Australians.