It’s the time of year when many of us connect with loved ones. It can also be the one time of the year when multiple generations come together.
While this can be a rewarding and lovely experience, it can also cause tension. Maybe it has been a while since you connected. Life circumstances have changed – health, jobs, relationships – and there is re-connecting to do.
Amidst all this, it isn’t hard for our biases and stereotypes to show up. We make assumptions, and we may be at the receiving end of them as well.
In anticipation, older children and young adults are steeling themselves for the inevitable unsolicited advice from older relatives. Older adults are getting ready for someone saying that you wouldn’t know how to use (name your technology) or just leaving you out of the conversation.
This holiday, let’s try something new.
Don’t make assumptions about what people know or can do based on their age. Ask them a question instead. Find a way to include them in ways that respect their experience.
Listen more and be curious. We don’t all share the same experiences and opinions, but when we listen, we can better understand each other – and may find that we share more than we thought
Be ready with a response to ageism. Check out the Speak Up tools on our Resources webpage for ideas. Here’s one to start: If someone says something ageist, ask them what they mean? Sometimes just trying to explain yourself helps you see where you slipped up.
Let’s make an effort this holiday season to change our narrative about aging. It could be the start to a whole new attitude in the new year.
Check out our Responding to Ageism guide for more ideas.