The past 100 years have seen almost a doubling of human life expectancy, and on average, we are living these additional years in much better health due to medical progress. This increase in longevity should be celebrated as one of humanity's greatest achievements.
So why is there so much negativity about the ageing of the world’s population and what this means for our future? And why is the depiction of older people so out of step with reality?
The World Health Organisation’s 2021 Global Report on Ageism identifies that ageism arises when people are categorised and divided based on their age in ways that cause disadvantage and injustice and affect solidarity between generations.
Put simply, ageism is how we negatively think, act or feel about someone based on their age. Ageism depicts older age and older people as a problem for society, and it is often seen as the last ‘socially acceptable’ form of discrimination.
Join Dr Joanna Hikaka, Co-Director, Centre for Co-Created Ageing Research and the panel:
Dr Chris Perkins, Consultant Psychiatrist and Author
Associate Professor Rich Wright, Co-Director, Centre for Ageing Well, AUT
Kylie Te Arihi and Trent Brown, Senior Advisors Māori & Pasifika, Office of the Health and Disability Commissioner
Dr Judy Blakey MNZM, Community Advisor and Age-Friendly Advocate
Book your free ticket today – seating is limited, so don’t miss out.
