Aging Network Challenges Negative Attitudes about Growing Older

Older Americans Month celebrates elders, promotes opportunities to grow, thrive and contribute.

Ohio’s 60-plus population is growing more than 20 times faster than our overall population. Our growing and changing aging population underscores the need to not only meet our elders’ care needs, but also to challenge negative stereotypes about aging and provide new and innovative opportunities for older adults to continue to contribute to their communities.

“Think about your interactions with friends, co-workers and loved ones over the past couple of days: How many times did you hear or say something negative about growing older?” asked Bonnie K. Burman, director of the department. “It is time for all Ohioans to challenge the declinist view of aging and celebrate the benefits and opportunities of living ‘Well Beyond 60!'”

Each May, Ohio and the nation celebrate the contributions and lives of our elders during Older Americans Month. This year, the Ohio Department of Aging is encouraging all Ohioans to re-evaluate their preconceived notions about growing older with its theme: “Aging. It’s Everybody’s Business.” All month long, the department and its partners in the aging network will highlight programs, projects, businesses and organizations in Ohio that provide meaningful opportunities and assistance for elders to remain in, engage with and contribute to their communities in positive and comprehensive ways.

Pledge to make aging your business:

• Challenge ageist views and negative stereotypes about aging wherever you see or hear them;
• Make lifestyle changes that will decrease the chance of chronic disease and injury as you age;
• Help others understand that aging has both challenges and benefits at every stage of life;
• Remember that all Ohioans deserve opportunities to grow, thrive and contribute throughout their lifespans; and
• Challenge community leaders, business owners, co-workers, family and friends to make aging their business, too!

Learn more about making aging your business by visiting the Ohio Department of Aging’s website all month long for resources, guest blogs, activities and more. Follow the Ohio Department of Aging on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and join the conversation by using the hashtag #WellBeyond60.