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October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day

Why should Adair County care and what each of us can do?

By Lynda Wilkerson, Executive Director
The Support Agency

On behalf of the Board of Directors of The Support Agency, I want to bring attention to October 9th, which is Ageism Awareness Day. This day is set aside to recognize how biases about aging show up in society and how to take small, practical steps to address it.

Let me define ageism. Ageism refers to stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) toward others or ourselves based on age. Ageism can apply to younger or older people. Ageism negatively impacts our health and well-being, our financial security and the economy. It exists in many forms, influencing everything from personal interactions to public policy, and impacts us at every age.

What can you do to address ageism?


For neighbors and families:
  • Ask, don't assume: start conversations about what an older neighbor or family member wants or needs before acting for them.
  • Include older adults in local events and volunteer roles as many want to lead, teach or mentor.
For employers and volunteer organizations:
  • Post job ads that emphasize skills, not age-related assumptions; offer flexible hours where possible.
  • Use "age-neutral" language in hiring (avoid terms like "young and energetic" or "digital native required" when not essential).
  • Tap experienced community members for part-time consulting, mentoring, or training roles.
For health and social-service providers:
  • Screen for treatable conditions rather than attributing problems to "old age." Encourage thorough assessments and shared decision-making.
  • Offer clear, accessible communication (large-print forms, plain language, phone callbacks) and check that older patients understand care plans.
For community leaders:
  • Promote intergenerational programming such as mentoring programs for youth.
  • Spotlight older residents' contributions in local media and at civic events. Public recognition changes narratives.
These small steps can produce big changes in how aging is seen and experienced locally. Let's all do our part to address ageism. Why is this important? We are all aging!

For more information about ageism check out our Facebook Page: The Support Agency or visit our website at www.thesupportsagency.com

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This story was posted on 2025-10-09 08:51:39
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