In my community
Ageism affects how welcome and included we all feel in our communities – and the opportunities we have to get involved. It’s time to create a future where we all feel valued and included - regardless of age.
Notice it
Ageism in communities can be subtle but pervasive. Look for it in:
- Friendships: Are older neighbours or community members being included in activities, or are assumptions being made about their abilities or interests? More than half of people over 50 have faced the assumption they can’t do something because of their age.
- Public spaces and events: Are older people spoken down to and patronised e.g. when out shopping or in other community spaces? Do community events cater to all age groups, or do they exclude older people by design or default?
- Local businesses and media: Are parks, gyms, transportation, and facilities accessible and welcoming to people of all ages? Are older adults portrayed as diverse, dynamic members of the community, or are they absent or reduced to stereotypes?
What I realise now is that what used to be old is not old anymore. The perception we had is that when you reach 60, that's it. But now, I go to the gym and I see 'old' people. There’s an instructor who’s 73 years old.
Challenge it
Communities thrive when they embrace all ages. Challenging ageism doesn’t require grand gestures - small, everyday actions can lead to big changes:
- Raise awareness: Share facts about ageing to dispel myths. For example, most older adults are not frail or dependent, and many are actively contributing to society through work, volunteering, and caregiving.
- Foster inclusivity: Encourage intergenerational events that bring people of all ages together to learn, share, and collaborate. Host community events like storytelling sessions where older adults share life experiences and younger participants discuss modern perspectives. This fosters mutual understanding and respect.
- Celebrate ageing: Take part in our Age Without Limits Day and celebrate the value and contributions of older people in society. Community groups and local voluntary sector organisations can also apply for micro-grants to support their event or activity.
- Become an Age-friendly Community: Encourage your local authority to sign up and join over 85 places across the country committed to making their community a better place to age in. In the meantime, work with local councils to ensure parks, public transport, and facilities are designed with all ages and abilities in mind.
TOP TIP - Avoid well-meaning but patronising terms such as 'sweet old lady' or 'still going strong'. These may be used with good intentions, but they subtly reinforce stereotypes that older adults in your community are fragile or exceptions for being active.
Five ways to make your business age-friendly
If your customers face barriers when they are shopping, taking part in activities or buying services, not only does it mean a less inclusive society it may also lose you essential business.
We have identified five ways you can make your business more age-friendly and accessible for the benefit of all age groups – and your bottom line.
Age Without Limits Day: Micro-grants for community groups
Age Without Limits Day will take place on Wednesday 11th June 2025 with the theme, 'Celebrate Ageing. Challenge Ageism'.
We are thrilled to announce that micro-grants are being made available for community groups and local voluntary sector organisations within Age-friendly Communities to take part.