Anti-Ageing, Anti-Ageism: Celebrating Life at Every Stage
- 55pluswellness
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
55+ WELLNESS
You’re reading a preview of the March/April 2025 issue of 55+ Wellness Magazine. For the full version, packed with even more insights, inspiration, and exclusive content, visit MA25
INTRODUCTION: A CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE ON AGING
Ageing is not a decline; it’s an evolution. Across the world, societies view ageing differently—some with reverence, others with reluctance. In Japan, elders are honoured through traditions like Respect for the Aged Day, although modern urbanization is shifting this dynamic. In many African countries, elders hold esteemed positions within their communities, serving as custodians of culture, mediators, and advisors. South America sees grandparents as the heart of family life, with strong multigenerational bonds. In contrast, many parts of Europe and the USA prioritise independence from the family unit, often at the risk of social isolation. These contrasts remind us: the way we age isn’t just about biology—it’s about the narratives we embrace.
It’s time to reclaim the story. If society tells you that getting older means becoming invisible, unskilled, or unimportant, know this: the facts—and your lived experience—prove otherwise.
Whether you’re launching a new business, travelling the world, mentoring others, or simply enjoying the richness of life, you define what ageing looks like.
A STORY OF EVERYDAY AGEISM: A SOCIAL ENCOUNTER
Sandra, 68, an ex-IT consultant, suggested using digital marketing at a community meeting. A younger member chuckled, “I think we need someone with the expertise...”
Ever had your experience brushed aside because of your age?
A STORY OF EVERYDAY AGEISM: DENIED A SECOND CHANCE
David, 72, loved dancing but was told surgery was too risky for “someone his age.” He got a second opinion, had the surgery, and was back on the dance floor within months.
How often is your potential underestimated?
AGEISM IN HEALTHCARE: THE COST OF ASSUMPTIONS
David’s surgery experience, sadly, isn’t unique at all—but it should be.
Studies show older adults are often denied surgeries and treatments based on outdated beliefs about recovery. Patronizing language like “elderspeak”, meanwhile, diminishes confidence, well-being and the space for self-advocacy.
In recent years, however, healthcare has been evolving: more and more professionals are being trained to recognize age bias, as seen in the WHO’s Global Report on Ageism, which calls for medical training reforms to improve healthcare outcomes for older adults (WHO, 2021).
AGEISM IN THE WORKPLACE: BREAKING THE “SILVER CEILING”
A 2024 study found that Spanish job candidates over 49 were 50% less likely to be interviewed compared to their younger counterparts (Quesada & Martinez de Lafuente, 2024). Yet companies that embrace multigenerational teams report higher productivity and innovation, as evidenced in a 2023 study by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP, 2023): the study found that businesses with a diverse age workforce saw a 15% increase in productivity and a 21% improvement in problem-solving efficiency, compared to those with a predominantly younger staff.
You are not “too old” to contribute. Your experience is invaluable. If employers don’t see it yet, it’s time they do.
AGEISM IN THE FAMILY: CHANGING THE CONVERSATION
Have you ever been handed the “kids’ menu” of family decision-making—excluded from serious discussions or told, “Don’t worry about that”? Sometimes, the most well-meaning families can reinforce ageism.
Your voice matters. Whether it’s financial planning or the latest tech trend, your wisdom is irreplaceable. Families thrive when every generation has a seat at the table.
MOVEMENTS COMBATING AGEISM: SHAPING A NEW FUTURE
As the againg population grows, the tides are turning. Intergenerational programs are proving that age diversity strengthens communities. The World Health Organization is pushing for policy changes worldwide and, here in Spain, initiatives across Andalucia are redefining what it means to grow older.
The Pharaon Project’s Andalusian Pilot integrates digital solutions to improve the well-being of older adults. By utilizing social networks for community engagement and wearable technology for physical activity monitoring, the project helps seniors remain healthy, active and socially connected (ResearchGate, 2024).
In San Roque, the Active Aging Program backed by Fundación Cepsa promotes mental and physical wellness through memory workshops, gymnastics, and digital literacy classes, aimed at both reducing the digital divide and promoting healthy living and leisure among the elderly (Cadena SER, 2024).
’Aula de Mayores 55+' at the University of Málaga provides lifelong learning opportunities for adults over 55, offering courses in history, science, arts, and digital literacy, fostering intellectual engagement and social participation (University of Málaga, 2024).
It’s not just about changing laws—it’s about changing minds. These initiatives challenge outdated narratives by fostering lifelong learning, encouraging social engagement, and promoting physical activity among older adults.
A CONFIDENT FUTURE: OWN YOUR STORY
Now, to the science of ageing: pioneering research from Dr. Becca Levy at Yale University demonstrates that positive age beliefs can extend lifespan by an average of 7.5 years, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and even improve memory and cognitive function.
Based on decades of studies, Dr. Levy’s recent book, Breaking the Age Code: How Your Beliefs About Ageing Determine How Long and Well You Live, highlights how individuals who reject negative stereotypes about ageing experience lower levels of stress and inflammation, key contributors to chronic illness (Levy, 2022).
Ageism is a lie—one that thrives when we internalize it.
THE POWER OF AGEING WITH PURPOSE
So, here’s the truth: You are not past your prime. You are hitting your stride. You are a powerhouse of knowledge, resilience, and experience.
Whether you’re launching a new business, travelling the world, mentoring others, or simply enjoying the richness of life, you define what ageing looks like.
This is your time. Own it. Celebrate it. Live it.
You’re reading a preview of the March/April 2025 issue of 55+ Wellness Magazine. For the full version, packed with even more insights, inspiration, and exclusive content, visit MA25
