October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day and it’s the perfect time to pause and think about what we are doing to ensure people of all ages can thrive.
Ageism isn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes it sounds like a well-meaning joke, a dismissive comment, or a careless assumption. But it’s also the older worker overlooked for training because she “might retire soon.” Or the patient whose medical concerns are brushed aside with “that’s just what happens when you get old.” And ageism is the invisibility of older adults in the media, where stories too often stop short of showing aging as vibrant, complex, and full of possibility.
Even the casual way we use words like “senior” or “elderly” can carry undertones that remove a person’s agency and dignity.
Ageism frays the fabric of our communities, siloing generations instead of fostering connection and understanding.
But change is possible. On Ageism Awareness Day, we have a chance to make a difference. We can speak up in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues and interrupt ageist remarks before they take root. And, we can work on inclusive policies in workplaces, healthcare, media, and government that benefit all New Jerseyans as we age.
We can also take the Lifelong Strong NJ pledge and encourage the next Governor to adopt a Multisector Plan for Aging.
Let’s share the stories that challenge stereotypes and broaden perspectives. Let’s educate our communities and make them inclusive and welcoming to people at all stages of life. And let’s celebrate aging itself as a natural, powerful, and beautiful part of life’s journey.
Ageism is not inevitable. We can build a culture that values every person, at every age.