How overcoming negative attitudes to ageing can make you live longer

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Introduction

Ageism remains a pervasive issue in society, affecting not only the elderly but also shaping the perceptions of younger generations. This report examines the impact of ageism, its implications on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the importance of changing societal views on ageing.

Prevalence of Ageism

Ageism is often considered the last acceptable prejudice. Despite advancements in combating other forms of discrimination, ageism continues to be normalized. According to the World Health Organization, globally, 1 in 2 people hold ageist views. These unfounded stereotypes significantly impact the lives of older individuals, influencing their financial opportunities, medical treatment, and overall quality of life.

Impact on Sustainable Development Goals

The persistence of ageism directly hinders the achievement of several SDGs, including:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Ageism affects the mental and physical health of older adults, leading to poorer health outcomes and reduced access to healthcare services.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Stereotypes about older workers limit their employment opportunities, contributing to economic inequality and reduced productivity.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – Ageism perpetuates social inequalities, marginalizing older adults and preventing them from fully participating in society.

Personal Experience and Societal Influence

A personal anecdote highlights the early onset of ageist views. Last Christmas, a 4-year-old expressed concern that Santa might forget his presents “because Santa is old.” This incident underscores how societal portrayals of ageing in media and everyday conversations influence young minds.

Research Findings

Research indicates that negative stereotypes about ageing not only harm society but also adversely affect individuals who hold these views. Studies have shown that such stereotypes impact how we age, both physically and mentally, influencing memory function, hearing loss, and other aspects of later life.

Addressing Ageism

Combating ageism requires a multifaceted approach involving policy changes, education, and societal shifts in perception. Key strategies include:

• Promoting Positive Images of Ageing – Media and advertising should depict older adults in diverse and positive roles.
• Intergenerational Programs – Initiatives that foster interactions between different age groups can help break down stereotypes.
• Policy Interventions – Governments should implement policies that protect the rights of older adults and promote their inclusion in all aspects of society.

Conclusion

Addressing ageism is crucial for achieving the SDGs and ensuring a more inclusive society. By changing how we view ageing, we can improve the quality of life for older adults and create a more equitable world for all generations.

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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
  • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
  • Target 16.b: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
  • Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate (implied through mental health impacts of ageism).
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 per cent of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities (implied through financial opportunities affected by ageism).
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
  • Indicator 16.b.1: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law (implied through the pervasive nature of ageism).

Findings from Analyzing the Article

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Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: newscientist.com

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