By Nicole Long, MSW, LICSW
CEO of Old Colony Elder Services
What is Ageism?
The World Health Organization defines ageism as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) toward others or oneself based on age.”
Ageism is one of the most pervasive forms of prejudice and shows up in everyday life in the way people interact, the biases held against different age groups, and the constant stream of negative messages about aging normalized by society.
For instance, the belief that you are “too old” to learn something new or take part in an activity reflects a damaging self-perception of aging; this is one of the ways ageism takes hold. Jokes about old age or forgetfulness also reinforce and normalize harmful stereotypes about growing older. Speaking to an older person in a condescending tone or making casual age-related comments are everyday examples of ageism in action.
As research has demonstrated, ageism is ever-present in several settings. It is found in media, entertainment, and advertising, as well as in healthcare facilities and workplaces. According to the Ageism Fact Sheet compiled by the American Society on Aging Ageism & Cultural Advisory Council, ageism can impact us at any age, and can impact someone we care for or ourselves.
One of the ways to combat ageism is by raising awareness and recognizing Ageism Awareness Day on October 9. Take a stand against ageism – fight stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination based on age; and work to build age-inclusive communities. Learn more about ageism and what you can do about it on ASA’s Ageism Awareness Day webpage at https://asaging.org/ageism-awareness.
Old Colony Elder Services provides information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. For more information, visit ocesma.org
Sources:
World Health Organization. (2025, April 28). Ageing: Ageism. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/ageing-ageism
American Society on Aging. (n.d.). October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day. https://asaging.org/ageism-awareness/
American Society on Aging. (n.d.). Ageism Fact Sheet. https://asaging.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Ageism-Awareness-Day-Fact-Sheet-2025-1.pdf
About the Author: Nicole Long is the Chief Executive Officer of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES). Founded in 1974, OCES is a private, non-profit organization proudly serving greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is designated as one of 25 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’s mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.
