Ageism is often hard to escape. From the misrepresentation of older adults in movies and TV to interactions with clinicians at your loved one’s medical appointments, the rampant attitudes that minimize the value of seniors are not only costly but also dangerous.
One event this week is working to raise awareness and get people talking through a special film screening event. Held Thursday, May 12 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. MDT, “Antidotes for Ageism: Film Screening and Discussion,” is a free event for caregivers, seniors, health care professionals and anyone interested in ending ageism.
The event is hosted by Changing the Narrative, an organization working “to change the way people think, talk and act about aging and ageism,” which partnered with the Boulder (Colorado) County Area Agency on Aging in 2021 to create the film that will be shown during the event as a way to educate about ageism in health care and what to do about it.
“Not sure what to do when a health care professional ignores you? Talks over you? Uses elder speak?” the group writes. “Or maybe you work with older adults—and get frustrated when you see ageism surface. Our intent? To increase awareness about ageism among health care professionals and others who work with older adults, and activate consumers to advocate for ourselves and for system changes.”
Participants who register for the event will view the film and then have the opportunity to engage in a discussion about how individuals and medical providers can both help create a more inclusive health care environment. Organizers promise that attendees will leave not only with resources and practical tools to fight ageism but also “a can-do attitude for your next health care visit.”
The event is free, but registration is required. Anyone who registers will receive a Zoom link ahead of the event to use to participate.