Countering Age-Related Stereotypes

Many people fear and dread the late adulthood stage of life because they believe what awaits them is ill health and cognitive decline. While that description fits some adults in later life, it certainly does not describe them all. Many older adults lead healthy, active lives and are closely connected to their families and communities. However, stereotypes related to aging are extremely prevalent in our culture and strongly influence our attitudes toward aging. Use your textbook and the Argosy University online library resources to research age-related stereotypes.

Read about one of the largest centenarian studies conducted in the U.S. at the following Web site:

• The University of Georgia Institute of Gerontology, College of Public Health. Georgia Centenarian Study. Retrieved from http://www.thecampuscommon.com/library/ezproxy/ticketdemocs.asp?sch=auo&turl=http://journals.sagepub.com.libproxy.edmc.edu/doi/pdf/10.2190/8M7H-CJL7-6K5T-UMFV

Create a chart evaluating three age-related stereotypes listing evidence that supports the stereotype (if it exists) and evidence that contradicts the stereotype. Be sure to include references for each stereotype. Present the information in a chart as shown:

Stereotype

Evidence in Support of Stereotype

Evidence that Contradicts Stereotype

1.

2.

3.

Based on your readings and research, describe at least one strategy for creating more positive views of aging in our culture.

Write a 1–2-page paper in Word format and include your chart. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.