Tackling Ageism In A Normalized Society!

The world is constantly changing, and along with it is a shift even in the corporate world. Among these changes is how leaders, employees, and business owners alike perceive and deal with stereotypes that inhibit growth and flourishing – one of these stereotypes is ageism.

Ageism is the discrimination and stereotyping against people on the basis of their age. It is widespread and a subtle practice which can be harmful to the health of older adults. Older people go through ageism every day. From being overlooked for employment to being restricted from social services and stereotyped in the media, ageism excludes older people in a community. It can be found anywhere and everywhere, yet it is socially “normalized” of any judgement, and is not openly spoken about – like racism or sexism.

A study was conducted recently for the budget needed by Singapore seniors to meet their basic needs, adults who were 55 years and older identified having opportunities for employment as one of the key parts of a “basic standard of living” while emphasising on the importance of independence. Since 2012, the retirement and re-employment age has been raised, They are now 62 – 67 and are set to go further up gradually.

According to World Health Organization, there are around 600 million people who are 60 years and over worldwide. This number will surely double by 2025 and will reach 2 billion by 2050, with the majority of older people in the world. Like sexism and racism, ageism also serves a social and economic purpose, which is to validate and sustain inequalities among groups. In 2014, governments worldwide recognized ageism as the driving force behind age discrimination.

Tackling ageism requires a polished understanding of ageing by all generations. With some effort, you can overcome it.

The following suggestions may help:

Speak up. Participate in conversations and do not let yourself be pushed around because you’re older. Even if you are tempted to sit on the sidelines and watch, you must put in effort to be involved.

Engage in the world. People who are active, mentally and physically, can overcome ageism more easily. Make sure you live in the present and are aware of what goes on around you.

Be positive. Attitude is a key part of battling with ageism. Enjoy the experience and wisdom that comes with age and put it to good use.

Surround yourself with younger people. Going to the gym or attending community gatherings with younger people will help fight ageism. Being around them will motivate you to push yourself.

Be as independent as you can. It is very important to believe that you can do anything at any age. If you are passionate about something, go do it. There is no set age to restrict yourself.

Volunteer. Joining in on activities helps you be active and distracted. It can help you meet new people, learn new skills and be physically and mentally healthier.

Exercise. Exercising helps you prevent diseases and improves mental health. Doing simple exercises or even walking can help strengthen and revitalize your body.

Fighting ageism together as a team can make an incredible change in the world and give equal and rightful opportunities to the older generation as well as our youth. Organising team building activities at workplaces is a great way to make senior citizens in your organisation feel inclusive of the team. Team building activities can also help in adapting new technologies to the ageing teams which can help them learn new & trending stuff about technology & applications.

Jambar Team Building is the most trusted team building company in Singapore. Our activities are designed to cater people of all age groups. We deliver innovative and interactive team building games that energize, unleash creativity and boost fun for whichever event you envision.