Ageism is a form of discrimination defined by the World Health Organization as “stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination against people on the basis of their age.” Ageism is a widespread and insidious practice that can have harmful effects on the health of older adults.
Instructions:
1. Answer the following questions as thoroughly and concisely as possible:
1. Discuss how ageism differs from racism and sexism. Point out that we will never know what it is like to be a different gender or a different race. We hope, however, that we will all know what it is like to be old.
2. Old is a relative measure of time, yet it conveys strong, mostly negative impressions. How might these attitudes about old affect one’s attitudes about growing old? About being with older people?
3. How might negative attitudes about aging influence public policy, health careers and social programs for older people?
2- Ageism
Sometimes the most obvious things in life are kept hidden because we would just rather not look at it. Ageism is a very prevalent type of prejudice against those that are elderly, and it expresses itself by perpetuating myths and ideas about the elderly that are just not true. Furthermore, these false ideas are perpetuated through generations.
Since ageism is all around us I want to see proof of it. Through the use of pictures I want you to demonstrate the use of ageism in our society. It could be a commercial in a magazine, on the television or greeting cards are always a good source.
Instructions:
1. Think about some of the false precepts such as most elderly are living in nursing homes, most elderly are demented, and, most elderly are depressed.
2. Read the booklet called, This Chair Rocks.
3. Watch the two videos below:
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKrwkT5Nkzg
· https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfjzkO6_DEI
·
4. Provide three (3) different examples of ageism visually. It could be a commercial in a magazine, on the television or greeting cards.
5. Take photos or create a video of your collection of proof.