Aquatic Exercise Association

Ageism is pervasive, affects people of all ages from childhood onwards and has serious and far-reaching consequences for people’s health, well-being and human rights. Ageism can be found within institutions, in interactions between people and within ourselves. According to the World Health Organization, globally, 1 in 2 people are ageist against older people and in Europe, younger people report more perceived ageism than other age groups.

To fully understand the topic of Ageism, how it crosses over to many aspects of life from the classroom to the workplace, in healthcare, and even the media this course provides a comprehensive overview of this topic addressing root assumptions, misconceptions, and strategies to avoid this form of bias, even in the most unintentional ways while offering strategies to address those often unintentional thoughts that create conflict and misunderstanding in interactions with others.  

Within the course you the following areas will be explored:  

• Becoming aware of ageism: Reflect on how ageism shapes one’s own thoughts, feelings, and life experiences.
• Learning about ageism: Learn how ageism affects others by listening to personal stories, reading books, and researching.
• Developing skills: Learn about and practice advocacy skills, such as knowing when to speak up and when to step back.
• Taking action: Put this knowledge into practice by correcting ageist stereotypes, challenging ageist jokes, or speaking out against ageist discrimination.