Taking Action Against Ageism through the Arts

Abstract

Ageism was first coined in 1969 by psychiatrist, Robert N. Butler, to describe prejudicial attitudes and discrimination against older adults based on age. Today, over 50 years later, ageism is not only still highly prevalent, but is recognized as a health issue of global concern. In recent years, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a global campaign to combat ageism. While the United States has been undergoing a long overdue “reckoning” and reconsideration of the impacts of racism and sexism, ageism remains largely socially sanctioned and tolerated. Ageism can be found in society in general as well as in medicine, among medical trainees and among older adults themselves. Like racism and sexism, structural ageism has deleterious consequences, especially for the health and well-being of older adults. Yet, combatting ageism continues to be particularly challenging and prior attempts to change ageist attitudes have often been unsuccessful. Recent work suggests that using the arts may be an effective way to bring about change in attitudes and behaviors, both for medical trainees and for older adults.In this symposium, geriatric psychiatrists Kirsten M. Wilkins, Mary C. Blazek, and Susan W. Lehmann will explore the impacts of structural ageism in society and healthcare and will evaluate the role of the arts in effecting attitudinal change. Dr. Kirsten M. Wilkins will provide an update and review of ageism in society and healthcare, especially since the advent of the recent Covid-19 pandemic, and its negative effects on older adults. Dr. Mary C. Blazek will discuss the potential for engagement with music and visual arts as a mechanism for effecting ageist attitudinal change in medical trainees. Dr. Susan W. Lehmann will discuss how engagement in music and the visual arts may promote both mental well-being in older adults and stimulate change in stereotyped ideas about aging. Dr. Dennis Popeo will discuss the implications of current research and will moderate discussion with the audience.