October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day, an occasion to change the narrative about aging. The World Health Organization defines ageism as the stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination against others or oneself based on age. Ageism causes us to undervalue the contributions older adults can make toward our economy and society. It has been associated with billions of dollars in lost productivity, poorer health outcomes and shorter lifespans.
As science works to help us live longer and healthier lives, it is imperative that we change the paradigm of “school, work, retirement at age 65,” and focus on valuing the contributions we continue to make as we age. We can shift our thinking of what it means to be retired toward a mindset that recognizes the opportunities to give back to our communities. Take me, for example. I am a retiree and a grandparent, but I am also a volunteer, an active member of my church and sorority, a member of several boards of directors and a podcaster. I also do some consulting and find that young people are eager to hear my stories and benefit from the wisdom of experience.
We could all use one less “ism” in our fractured world. The journey of aging is a privilege that should be honored, celebrated and valued. Today, I urge you to embrace the journey of aging, welcome the opportunities for intergenerational conversations and socialization, and promote a more accurate view of what it means to age.
-Vanne Owens Hayes
Trellis Board Chair