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Combating ageism

The struggle to eradicate ageism has gathered momentum in Israel and elsewhere in the world, and the first emergence of change can be seen on the horizon. The World Health Organization (WHO) identified four primary strategies  for combating ageism: education, intergenerational contact, campaigning, and policy change. This section of ‘A Site for All Ages’ is devoted to examples of the activities, the trends and the projects that are currently operating in these channels. 

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Education

One of the primary and most effective strategies for eradicating ageism is educational activity. The guiding principle is that explanatory talks and workshops on the topic, to professionals, the general public, children and youth, and even to older people themselves, can bring about change in perceptions and opinions regarding age.

חינוך
קשר בינדורי

Studies show that programs that build bridges and forge connections between people of different ages contribute to more positive and sympathetic perceptions among people of different age groups, including older people.

Intergenerational contact

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Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be, the last of life,
for which the first was made.
Our times are in his hand who saith,
'A whole I planned, youth shows but half; Trust God: See all, nor be afraid!

Robert Browning

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קמפיינים

Campaigning

Campaigning was selected as one of the most successful strategies for overcoming ageism in society because of the power of the media in delivering messages and influencing public opinion. Nonetheless, evidence of this is still lacking.  

חקיקה

Legislation

There is a growing understanding that government policy influences the way people think, feel and act. Changes in the law are able to reduce – or increase – ageism in society. The introduction of punishment for ageist behavior could reduce the phenomenon, while incentives could be offered to encourage people to become involved in anti-ageism activities.

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