Frameworks Institute guide on reframing aging language: uses the evidence-informed findings from the Reframing Aging Initiative and the best practices guidance from the APA, AMA, and AP style guides to show you how to apply age-inclusive, bias-free language in your communications. To make it easier to identify wording that can be improved, the guide highlights terms to avoid and suggests alternatives to use more often.
The Centre for Ageing Better has a free library of positive and realistic images of people aged 50 and over. While its U.K. focused, many images are generic enough to depict older adults anywhere. Please read their guide and terms for use.
Many different groups of people are subject to stereotypes. Positive stereotypes (e.g., “older and wiser”) may provide a benefit to the relevant groups. However, negative stereotypes of aging and of disability continue to persist and, in some cases, remain socially acceptable. Research has shown that when exposed to negative images of aging, older persons demonstrate poor physical and cognitive performance and function, while those who are exposed to positive images of aging (or who have positive self-perceptions of aging) demonstrate better performance and function. Furthermore, an individual’s expectations about and perceptions of aging can predict future health outcomes. To better understand how stereotypes affect older adults and individuals with disabilities, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, with support from AARP, convened a public workshop on October 10, 2017. This publication summarizes the presentations and discussions from the workshop.