OCTOBER ARTICLE: A positive self-perception of aging is key. Join us in Recognition of Ageism Awareness Day
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) and the American Society on Aging (ASA) will recognize Ageism Awareness Day on Oct. 9, 2024. Modeled after the United Nation’s International Day of Older Persons (Oct. 1), Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to highlight the prejudice of ageism and its effects.
One of the most widespread and socially accepted forms of prejudice, ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” Every time someone makes an age-based assumption, it affects us all.
Evidence shows that ageism is pervasive in a number of settings, including health care facilities, workplaces, media, entertainment, and advertising.
Did you know that our perception of ourselves aging is a way that ageism shows itself? A negative self-perception of aging can affect one’s quality of life.
According to the Ageism Fact Sheet compiled by the ASA Ageism & Cultural Advisory Council, “Older individuals with more positive self-perceptions of aging live 7.5 years longer than those with a less positive perception of aging. Also, higher optimism has been associated with a more positive self-perception of aging, which can lead to positive health consequences”.
Today, many older adults are living longer than their parents or grandparents. There remains an old-fashioned belief among some people that growing older means it’s time to slow down, step back from things, and be less involved. However, studies have shown that staying connected, remaining active and being socially engaged are key elements of thriving while aging.
Awareness is key (copy)
Ageism shows up in many ways: between people when they interact; becoming bias towards people of other age groups; and through normalized negative messages about aging.
How can we fight stereotypes and bring forth change? Learn more about ageism and how to take action against it on the ASA Ageism Awareness Day webpage at
About the American Society on Aging
The ASA unites, empowers, and champions everyone working in aging. Since 1954, ASA has developed and led the largest, most diverse community of professionals working in aging in America. As a result, ASA has become the go-to source to cultivate leadership, advance knowledge, and strengthen the skills of our members and others who work with and on behalf of older adults. For further information about ASA, visit www.asaging.org.
OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. For more information call 508-584-1561.
Sources:
American Society on Aging. (n.d.) Ageism Awareness Day. https://asaging.org/ageism-awareness
American Society on Aging. (n.d.) Ageism Fact Sheet. https://www.asaging.org/sites/default/files/2024-08/Ageism%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Ageism%20Awareness%20Day_0.pdf
Recent News
Old Colony Elder Services Named as a 2024 Best Place to Work
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has been named as a Cape & Plymouth Business Marketing 2024 Best Places to Work honoree. It is the second consecutive year that OCES has received this award.
Full Article Old Colony Elder Services Named as a 2024 Best Place to Work
OCTOBER ARTICLE: A positive self-perception of aging is key. Join us in Recognition of Ageism Awareness Day
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) and the American Society on Aging (ASA) will recognize Ageism Awareness Day on Oct. 9, 2024. Modeled after the United Nation’s International Day of Older Persons (Oct. 1), Ageism Awareness Day is an opportunity to highlight the prejudice of ageism and its effects.
SEPTEMBER ARTICLE: Celebrating Grandparents!
Every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day, people celebrate National Grandparents Day in honor of grandparents.
Grandparents hold a special role in their grandchildren’s lives – a role that includes sharing their wisdom and experiences. Grandparents are a source of strength and oftentimes are their grandchildren’s greatest advocates.
OCES is shining a light on Caregivers and honoring their commitment to caregiving. Nominate a Caregiver for National Caregiver Month
OCES the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, is putting the spotlight on caregivers in honor of National Caregiver Month.
AUGUST ARTICLE: Falls Prevention Awareness Week is coming in September
Did you know? The number one cause of injury and injury-related fatality among older adults is unintentional falling. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), more than half of all falls happen at home.
Objects such as footstools, floor plants, electrical cords, pillows, bedding, shoes, throw rugs and other items on the floor are all considered “trip hazards” and may cause you to fall.
The most common injury from a fall is a fracture. Older adults who have a condition such as osteoporosis, are particularly at risk of a fracture from a fall.
Full Article AUGUST ARTICLE: Falls Prevention Awareness Week is coming in September
Community Options Ep. 286, Falls Prevention
In Episode 286 of Community Options we are discussing Falls Prevention with Pat Livie and Donna Forand of OCES' Healthy Living Department.
OCES Holds Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon & Awards Ceremony in Kingston
More than 225 volunteers attended OCES’ Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Awards Ceremony on May 29, 2024. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored their volunteers with a special luncheon at Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston, MA.
OCES is a Certifying Organization of the National President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) that honors outstanding volunteers and recognizes the impact they make. Armindo Rocha, OCES’ Volunteer Programs Manager, and Cidalia America, OCES’ Volunteer Coordinator, hosted the event and presented special awards to 15 volunteers.
Full Article OCES Holds Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon & Awards Ceremony in Kingston
Community Options Ep. 300, LGBTQ+ Programs available in our community
In Episode 300 of Community Options we are LGBTQ+ programs available in our community
Guests include:
Emily Williams - Director of the Bridgewater COA
Joanne Moore - Director of the Duxbury COA
Full Article Community Options Ep. 300, LGBTQ+ Programs available in our community
JULY ARTICLE: July is Disability Pride Month!
Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, commemorates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legislated in July 1990 to extend civil rights protections to people with disabilities. It is a time to celebrate people with disabilities and honor the history and achievements of the disability community.
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) supports the independence of older adults and people with disabilities to thrive in their own homes and in the community.
JUNE ARTICLE: Pride Month - LGBTQIA+ Senior Luncheon
In June, we celebrate Pride Month and commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising which served as a catalyst for the global movement for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) rights.
Join Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) in remembering this important time in history. OCES supports everyone without exception!
Full Article JUNE ARTICLE: Pride Month - LGBTQIA+ Senior Luncheon
