Most of us have some old people in our lives that we love dearly. We don't intentionally treat them poorly and we hope for the same from others. However, as a culture, ageism in America is a real issue. It is one I have witnessed when I was in contact with my mother and watching her age and one I can see from the portrayals of old people on television. I hear ageism in comments from my peers. I don't know about you but when I am old I plan to still be a badass. I hate to think of the way I will be treated as a child-like person who needs help.
Some cases of ageism are purely accidental or even meaning well while others are intentionally hurtful. I have seen young people visibly laugh at and tease old people for how they look/what they're wearing. Sorry to break it to you there young snickerers but you're probably not going to be as "on fleek" when you are seventy or older. Although I have seen some super fashionable older people...
One important example is how people automatically go to help old people. I have read so many accounts of old people simply feeling annoyed at this offer. Like I said, sometimes ageism is meaning well. It's okay to help people in need but maybe make sure they are in need first? Many old people can move around just fine, even if they have a cane. Many old people like doing things for themselves. Don't simply assume they need help. Now if you see them trying and failing to reach something, sure offer help just like you would with any person. If they ask you for help reading something , help them! If you just visible noticed they are old, don't just assume they need help.
Another thing I have noticed personally is how we portray old people in films and shows. It is rare that the old people in movies and shows are full 3-dimensional people with a range of emotions, and passions like their younger counter-parts. One show that this is not true about -one of my favorite shows- is "SIX FEET UNDER" and that is one of the many things I love about the show. The old people aren't just a supporting cast or convenient stereotype but they are full human beings and are portrayed as fully and carefully as every character in the show.
A third example of ageism I will convey is how old people are often ignored in conversations among young people. Or ignored in general. I have always been friends with both old and young people in my work place. I don't see them as non-entities but I have watched old people be completely ignored during conversations at these same jobs. Or even worse scoffed at for trying to join in. These people have lived a hell of a lot longer than you have and probably have -if not wisdom- a very interesting perspective on life that you won't find anywhere else. Talk to them like people. Learn from them. Be grateful to have their knowledge added to your life.
I will also point out one final example of ageism that annoys old people themselves more than it annoys me. Stop treating old people like they are Benjamin Button and have reverted to the mentality of a child. They may have hearing or sight issues but you don't need to patronize them by calling them "sweetie" or "honey" and using your voice normally reserved for babies and pets. Yes, some older people may have dementia or other mental issues but most old people do not and, regardless, none of them need to be talked to like a baby. Even toddlers shouldn't be talked to like babies. They learn better and feel better when talked to like adults. So, a person who lived through more life than you can imagine certainly don't need you talking to them like they were just born.
