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
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
Home Care Service Providers Concerned by Stalled FY25 Supplemental Funds
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, shares deep concern as critical funding for home care services remains stalled in the legislature awaiting final approval and passage. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, shares deep concern as critical funding for home care services remains stalled in the legislature awaiting final approval and passage.
Full Article Home Care Service Providers Concerned by Stalled FY25 Supplemental Funds
JUNE ARTICLE: Pride Month, LGBTQIA+ Senior Luncheon
The 1969 Stonewall Uprising served as a catalyst for the global movement for LGBTQIA+ rights.
In June, we celebrate Pride Month commemorating this important time in history.
Diversity enriches our community. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living. OCES aspires to be a culturally diverse and inclusive organization that removes barriers creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential.
Full Article JUNE ARTICLE: Pride Month, LGBTQIA+ Senior Luncheon
“March Against Elder Abuse” events to be held in Plymouth and Brockton in June
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15th and “March Against Elder Abuse” events will be held in Brockton and Plymouth, MA.
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), in partnership with the Brockton Council on Aging, the Plymouth Center for Active Living, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department, and the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office will hold two FREE one-mile marches to raise awareness of elder abuse in June.
Full Article “March Against Elder Abuse” events to be held in Plymouth and Brockton in June
Community Options Ep. 309 - World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Panel
In June we hosted a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Panel featuring:
Teresa Kourtz, OCES Protective Services Director
Mayor Robert Sullivan, City of Brockton
District Attorney Timothy Cruz, Plymouth County
Christina Long, Brockton Council on Aging
Full Article Community Options Ep. 309 - World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Panel
MAY ARTICLE: Join us to celebrate Older Americans Month this May!
The Administration for Community Living (ACL), which leads the nation’s observance of this special month, has announced this year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging”, will focus on “transforming how society perceives, talks about and approaches aging”.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that by 2030, all Baby Boomers will reach age 65 or older; by 2040, this demographic is expected to make up 22 percent of the American population.
Full Article MAY ARTICLE: Join us to celebrate Older Americans Month this May!
Community Options Ep. 308 - Brockton Council On Aging
In May we spoke with Dottie Slack, Outreach Coordinator and Shine Counselor at the Brockton Council on Aging highlighting the grand re-opening and programs and activities at the COA.
Full Article Community Options Ep. 308 - Brockton Council On Aging
APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Full Article APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
In April, we celebrate National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and honor the countless individuals who generously donate their time, skills, and energy to make a lasting impact in their communities. At Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), we proudly acknowledge the dedication of our volunteers who work tirelessly to support older adults, individuals with disabilities, and others across the 23 communities we serve.
We discussed our Volunteer programs with:
- Cidalia America, Volunteer Coordinator at OCES
- Mike Pauley, OCES Volunteer
Full Article Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
During March, we celebrate Social Work Month and the many contributions of social workers.
Social workers are dedicated to helping people and communities thrive. Social workers also help people of all ages cope with life’s challenges. A major part of a social worker’s job is advocacy. Social workers stand up for equal rights of all people and work to ensure that services are provided to all who need them.
Full Article MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
Old Colony Elder Services Launches Urgent Campaign for Essential Funding to Support Vital Programs
OCES a designated Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) and the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has kicked off a campaign to raise awareness for essential funding needed to support vital programs including Home Care Services.
