10/09/2026
October 9th is Ageism Awareness Day.
For those unfamiliar with the term, ageism, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or ourselves based on age.”
While ageism can affect any age group, a study published by the University of Michigan in 2020 highlights the impact of ageism on adults aged 50-80. The study (linked below) found that 82% of participants experienced one of more forms of ageism in their everyday lives. The study goes on to propose a correlation between perceived ageism and the health of the participants, stating that those who encountered more ageism in their daily lives tended to report poorer health conditions.
Ageism can be harmful to a person’s overall well-being. Combatting ageist stereotypes and raising awareness of ageism as a concept can help eliminate stigma around age and bring people closer together. Read more from the articles linked below to learn more about ageism and what you can do to help combat ageism in your community.
Study from the University of Michigan: https://ihpi.umich.edu/national-poll-healthy-aging/national-findings/everyday-ageism-and-health
More information on ageism and what you can do: https://asaging.org/ageism-awareness/
Poll Report Questions Download the report Read the Press Release Ageism refers to discrimination, prejudice, and stereotyping based on age. Age-based discrimination in employment, housing, and health care can negatively affect older adults’ health and well-being. Older adults may also experience a...