THE INTERSECTIONS OF AGING BELIEFS AND POLICY

Abstract

Abstract Ample evidence and stereotype embodiment theory indicate that older adults’ internalized beliefs about aging are related to their health and well-being over time. Aging beliefs are constructed and reinforced socioculturally, interpersonally, and structurally, the latter of which includes federal, state, and local policies. For instance, policies affect resource allocation for Older Americans Act programs, job security and safeguarding from workplace age discrimination, access to medical services or treatments, and financial well-being via tax and retirement law. Heterogeneity in community and organization-level public health policies during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic also shaped and were shaped by beliefs about aging. Further, policies that acknowledge and address ageism not only promote positive health, social, and financial outcomes for older adults, but also allow all of the public to benefit from older adults’ participation in society. As a GSA policy intern, I tracked and analyzed legislation that is relevant for optimal aging outcomes, identified implicit age bias in policy, and framed policy recommendations that promote positive aging beliefs. Effective policies and collective action that reduce ageism, facilitate intergenerational contact, and ensure access to necessary services have the potential to benefit all of us as we age, not only directly, but also indirectly through beliefs about aging.