#2 in Series: A Fresh Take on Aging: Living with Purpose, Power & Possibility

by Glena Stephenson

Are You Aging—or Just Battling Stereotypes? (Let’s Talk About Ageism)

Let’s have an honest conversation.

Most of us have heard things like, “You’re too old for that,” or “Aren’t you slowing down?” Maybe we’ve even said them about ourselves without thinking twice. But these little comments—harmless as they might seem—are part of a bigger issue: ageism.

Wait… What Exactly Is Ageism?

Ageism is a fancy word for the assumptions, stereotypes, and bias people have based on age. And here’s the kicker—it doesn’t just come from younger people looking down on older adults. It can come from ourselves, too.

Every time we joke about “having a senior moment” or pass on something new because we think, “I’m too old for this,” we’re actually feeding the very narrative that says aging equals decline.

We don’t mean to, of course. But the messages are everywhere—on TV, in advertising, in the doctor’s office, and even in casual conversations.

And they have consequences.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Here’s what many people don’t realize: negative beliefs about aging don’t just hurt our feeling - they can actually hurt our health.

Studies show that people who hold ageist beliefs (even about themselves!) are more likely to experience:

• Increased stress
• Higher blood pressure
• Reduced motivation and self-esteem
• Even a shorter life expectancy

That’s right, buying into ageist stereotypes can literally shave years off your life.

Ageism Is Sneaky

It shows up in all kinds of subtle ways:

• In advertising – “Anti-aging” creams that imply aging is something to “fix”
• In healthcare – A focus only on what's “wrong” instead of what’s possible
• In the workplace – Older adults being overlooked for opportunities
• In conversations – Compliments like “You don’t look your age!” (Why should that be a compliment?)

Even when people mean well, these messages all point to the same idea: aging is something to avoid, not embrace.

So What Can We Do?

The first step is becoming aware. Once we recognize how deeply ageist beliefs are embedded in our culture, we can start to push back.

• Let’s stop making jokes that dismiss ourselves.
• Let’s challenge outdated assumptions, like the idea that learning new skills or trying new things is only for the young.
• Let’s recognize the richness of experience and wisdom that only time can bring.

Aging Isn't the Problem—Our Mindset Is

When we shift our mindset about aging, the whole world opens up. Instead of seeing ourselves as winding down, we start to see everything we’ve gained: insight, strength, compassion, resilience.

That’s the real story. And it's a beautiful one.

Next up: We're going to dive into a revolutionary idea that’s gaining traction worldwide—what “healthy aging” really looks like.

Spoiler: it’s not about pretending you’re still 30. It’s about thriving exactly where you are.

You in?

🔦 Elder Who Broke the Mold: 

This Week’s Inspiration: Tao Porchon-Lynch – The World’s Oldest Yoga Teacher

Tao Porchon-Lynch began practicing yoga at the age of eight and continued teaching well into her 100s. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest yoga instructor, she exemplified the mantra that age is merely a number. Her philosophy centered on the belief that nothing is impossible.​

Experience her wisdom and vitality firsthand in this inspiring video:

"Aging is not 'lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength." - Betty Friedan