Given the negative effects of ageism, age-related stereotypes and age bias in our society should be challenged. The most effective way to do that is to spread awareness about aging and increase intergenerational contact, says Dr. Matzo.
"Talk to older adults to learn about their lives, challenge stereotypes when you encounter them, know that, unlike other stereotypes you might hold, if you are fortunate enough to get to old age, the ageist stereotypes will be about you, so don’t lament growing old—it’s a gift not everyone is given," she says.
#22 Found This Hidden Behind Some Jars In My Widowed, 86 Y/O Grandma's Kitchen. I Guess We All Have Our Dirty Little Secrets
#23 My Bro Told My Grandma, Jokingly, He Wanted 100 Things From The Dollar Store For Christmas, Grandma Doesnt Like Being Challenged
It can also be beneficial to challenge ageism by helping to change older adults’ outlook toward their own aging process, as aging successfully majorly depends on the person. Everyone has the opportunity to shape their aging process by choosing what they eat and drink, how physically active they are, and how they manage stress.
"Change in habits adds years," says Dr. Matzo. "Cardiovascular fitness is up 10 - 30% with aerobics, and strength of 80-90-year-olds triples with bodybuilding, while exercise cuts death rate 25-50% and osteoporosis lessens with strengthening exercises."
#29 My Grandparents Have Been Refilling The Same Soap Container Since Before I Was Born. I'm 24
#31 This Dummy Sat In My Grandmother's Living Room Throughout My Whole Childhood And It Always Terrified Me. Now I Have Kids, Time To Pass On The Trauma
#38 Found This While Cleaning Out My Grandpas Garage. Guess His Jimmies Were Rustled One Too Many Times
#39 Grandma Got An Apple Watch But Still Insistent On Sporting The Rolex
