Age Stereotypes Research Articles

ENGAGING IN ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP UNDERSTAND THE AGING EXPERIENCE

Abstract This symposium provides an overview of artistic and creative engagement methodologies to understand aging experiences. The first presentation examines a collaborative effort involving a researcher and filmmaker to film, edit, and produce a documentary about Irish Men’s Sheds to increase awareness of diversity within the dissemination of narrative stories. The second presentation focuses on drawing, investigating how young children socially and cognitively represent perceptions of human longevity and of the concept of what constitutes “old.” Children were asked questions regarding what it means to be “old” and what they might look like at 100 years, and to draw a self-portrait image. Findings demonstrating internal working models consistent with socially-learned attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes of aging. The third presentation explains digital narrative gerontology and a life story project of the older adult’s life created by younger and older adults. Thematic analysis revealed improved well-being, reduced generational stereotypes, and feelings of loneliness and isolation. The fourth presentation details an intergenerational project involving university students and older adults with cognitive impairment. Participants engaged in a six-week, telephone-based reminiscence experience and then co-created a storyboard/script to create a digital story. Thematic analysis demonstrated six themes: Family, religion and purpose in life, loves and hates, career/work, stress/coping, and major life turning points. The final presentation details music as a therapeutic intervention to improve older adults’ quality of life and foster social connections, self-understanding and expression. Observations from working with older adults in a variety of environments and preferred music styles will also be discussed.

The perceptions of university students on technological and ethical risks of using robots in long-term care homes.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted long-term care (LTC) residents and exacerbated residents' risks of social isolation and loneliness. The unmet emotional needs of residents in LTC have driven researchers and decision-makers to consider novel technologies to improve care and quality of life for residents. Ageist stereotypes have contributed to the underuse of technologies by the older population. Telepresence robots have been found to be easy to use and do not require older adults to learn how to operate the robot but are remotely controlled by family members. The study aimed to understand the perspectives of multidisciplinary university students, including healthcare students, on using telepresence robots in LTC homes. The study would contribute to the future planning, implementation, and design of robotics in LTC. Methods: Between December 2021 and March 2022, our team conducted interviews with 15 multidisciplinary students. We employed a qualitative descriptive (QD) approach with semi-structured interview methods. Our study aimed to understand the perspectives of university students (under the age of 40) on using telepresence robots in LTC homes. Participants were invited to spend 15 min remotely driving a telepresence robot prior to the interview. A diverse team of young researchers and older adults (patient and family partners) conducted reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Six themes were identified: Robots as supplementary interaction; privacy, confidentiality, and physical harm; increased mental well-being and opportunities for interactions; intergenerational perspectives add values; staffing capacity; environmental and cultural factors influence acceptance. Conclusion: We identified a diverse range of perspectives regarding risk and privacy among participants regarding the implementation of telepresence robots in long-term care. Participants shared the importance of the voice of the resident and their own for creating more equitable decision-making and advocating for including this type of technology within LTC. Our study would contribute to the future planning, implementation, and design of robotics in LTC.

INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN FOR INTERGENERATIONAL AND AGE-INCLUSIVE LEARNING: LESSONS FROM A GERONTOLOGY CLASSROOM

Abstract The paper will present a multi-year research study that examined the learning needs of first-generation younger and older learners in a graduate-level online learning environment. Ageism and related stereotyping will be reviewed as concepts that reflect a potentially biased understanding of all age groups that should be addressed in intergenerational learning activities. Students’ perceptions of understanding aging issues and stereotypes were compared pre- and post-course. A model will be presented about designing an age-inclusive, age-friendly online course design utilizing intergenerational learning activities to optimize learning outcomes while reducing ageist assumptions through targeted virtual discussions about diversity perceptions in the classroom—the design of intergenerational engagement discussion and other learning assignment activities in an introductory graduate gerontology course. Implications for creating intergenerational programming will be discussed.

NEGATIVE AGING STEREOTYPES: FEAR OF DEPENDENCY EFFECTS ON ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN MIDDLE AND OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Negative stereotypes of aging tend to depict older adults as frail or a burden on society. According to Stereotype Embodiment Theory, adults who believe negative aging stereotypes tend to internalize these thoughts, and have been found to experience negative physical and mental outcomes, in later life. One aspect of these internalized stereotypes is the fear of being dependent on other people, which highlights the older adults’ worry of being seen as incompetent or child-like. Participants were aged 50 to 82-years-old (M=58.5), and primarily White (87%) women (62%). This study explored the relationship between Fear of Dependency Scale (FoD) and anxiety and depression, evaluating gender, age, and physical health as moderators. FoD was related to higher ratings of depression and anxiety in women, with age and physical health acting as moderators. When reporting a high fear of dependency, middle-aged women and women reporting poor physical health had the highest reported anxiety and depression. The early impact of FoD on women is intriguing. FoD was positively associated with higher ratings of depression for men but not anxiety, with only physical health acting as a moderator. Men with high FoD scores and poor physical health reported the highest levels of depression. It appears the negative views of aging can affect individuals, even before they reach older adulthood, and especially if they have poor perceptions of their physical health. Having negative perceptions of aging can negatively impact individuals as they age, and some groups may be more at risk for these outcomes than others.

EXPLORING NEW WAYS TO IMAGINE OUR FUTURE THROUGH INTERGENERATIONAL CASE STUDY PROJECTS IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Abstract Aging education is largely absent from the PK-12 curriculum. When students do encounter messages about aging and older adults it is generally through such activities as dressing “like a 100-year-old” to celebrate the 100th day of school which promotes the internalization of ageist stereotypes starting at a young age. Motivated by a desire to push back against these ageist messages in school, the presenter partnered with elementary school educators and school administrators to develop and deliver two intergenerational case study projects involving elementary school-aged children, undergraduate students, and older adults. The presenter will highlight objectives, activities, and outcomes of the Let’s Dream Together and Ages & Stages in Our Community projects and provide suggestions for aging educators interested in similar initiatives.

RELATION OF SPECIFIC DOMAINS OF AGING KNOWLEDGE AND CONTACT TO AGEIST ATTITUDES AMONG DOCTORAL PSYCHOLOGY STUDENTS

Abstract Knowledge about aging and intergenerational contact were identified in Levy’s (2018) Positive Education about Aging and Contact Experiences (PEACE) model as the two elements that are key to reducing ageist attitudes. Existing empirical literature examining these relationships has primarily focused on undergraduate, rather than graduate, students and has typically operationalized knowledge about aging as a unidimensional construct (i.e., total score). Thus, in this study, we examined how knowledge within three specific domains of aging (psychological, social, biological) as well as quantity of contact with older adults related to ageist attitudes among doctoral psychology students (N=192; age=21-58 years). Participants completed the Contact with Older Adults Scale, Facts about Aging Quiz, Fraboni Scale of Ageism (subscales: Stereotypes, Separation, Affective Attitudes), and Ambivalent Aging Scale (subscales: Hostile Ageism, Benevolent Ageism). Controlling for students’ age and aging coursework, the three knowledge domains and contact together explained between 8%-24% of the variance in the five measures of ageist attitudes. As expected, greater knowledge of psychological aging related to less endorsement of ageist stereotypes and less separation from older adults; however, greater knowledge of biological aging related to more ageist attitudes across all five measures, and greater knowledge of social aging related to more benevolent ageist attitudes. More contact with older adults related to less separation and less negative affect about older adults, but not to the other ageist attitudes measures. Differentiating between domains of aging knowledge produced unique relations with both explicitly negative and ambivalent ageist attitudes, which ageism intervention designers may need to consider.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A VIRTUAL INTERGENERATIONAL ACTIVITY FOR REDUCING YOUNGER AND OLDER ADULTS’ AGEISM

Abstract This presentation will discuss results from a study that examined whether a virtual intergenerational activity was feasible and effective for reducing ageism among older (OA) and younger adults (YA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. OA (n = 16) and YA (n = 15) completed a virtual intergenerational activity, and analysis was conducted for a subsample (n = 5 OA, n = 10 YA) who completed pretest-posttest ageism surveys. Paired samples t-tests showed no significant ageism change in attitudes toward OA. OAs’ ageist attitudes toward YA (p = .012) were significantly reduced. Open-ended responses revealed several themes (e.g., challenging ageist stereotypes), which contrasted with statistical findings among the YA sample. Preliminary evidence demonstrated the feasibility of this activity. Further, OA and YA gained greater respect and understanding for each other as indicated by the open-ended responses. However, a larger sample size is needed to better determine efficacy. Nonetheless, the key takeaways from this presentation will help educators and program organizers alike explore when and how a virtual intergenerational activity can bridge gaps between older and younger adults.

THE AGING PROFESSOR OF GERONTOLOGY: MINING THE PLATINUM

Abstract This symposium explores evidence of the subtle, pernicious influence of unconsciously internalized ageist stereotypes on the engagement, job performance, perception of self and life satisfaction of older persons who are teachers of Gerontology in higher education. Unsolicited responses to the Tibbitts Award Lecture at the 2022 Conference of the Gerontological Society of American inspired this symposium and comments that indicated many older teachers of Gerontology in institutions of higher learning had become more aware of how internalized ageism and the ageism of others influences one’s pedagogy of aging. This includes one’s gerontological imagination, self-disclosure, thoughts about retirement, and organizational self-esteem. Learning to accept one’s own aging, personal growth, and activities to maintain professional competence are challenges to continuing in one’s role. This symposium captures the reflections of four established Gerontologists about these issues and how they shape careers, especially late life work. Results of a scoping literature review and some case studies of topics relevant to breaking the age code are reported. Topics to be covered include: the intersection of personal aging and aging pedagogy, career self-management of late life work, assessing and dealing with career competence and incompetence in late life work, and the Role of Age Friendly Environments. The discussant will capture the impact of ageism on these topics, and how working on beliefs about aging can influence and improve late life work and empower a productive lifespan.

THE PERSISTENCE OF AGE DISCRIMINATION IN SHAPING LATE WORKING LIVES

Abstract The aging population and subsequent demographic shift have driven the Extended Working Lives (EWL) agenda to become an important policy goal. However, millions of older workers leave the workforce each year due to unsupportive work environments attributed in part or in whole to ageist policies and practices, raising questions about older workers’ perceptions of themselves in the workforce and what this means for the EWL agenda. Using data from 25 qualitative interviews, our research finds that ageism continues to play a part in the decision-making process of older workers when considering their future. These findings fall into two categories: Age barriers within the workplace and Perceptions. Age barriers within the workplace include tasks or events that incite a feeling of separation from younger peers, such as training, social interaction, and digitization. Perceptions are older workers’ internalized expectations of themselves and their abilities. Our findings suggest these perceptions do not align with the reality for older workers, thus contributing to internalized ageism. The need to target stereotypical attitudes towards older workers was highlighted as an age barrier to employment before the turn of the century. However, despite the Extended working Lives, Active Aging and Fuller Working Lives Agendas changing the policy context around older workers, this research suggests that the same stereotypes continue to pervade older workers both externally from policy and practice and internally in self-perceptions. A life-course approach to policy is needed to improve conditions for older workers and to challenge ageist stereotypes in a meaningful way.

“OLDER ADULTS SHOULD…”: CROSS-NATIONAL DIFFERENCES IN ENDORSEMENT OF PRESCRIPTIVE AGE STEREOTYPES

Abstract Normative expectations about how older adults should behave are known as prescriptive age stereotypes (or “prescriptive views of aging,” PVoA). Previous research has shown that endorsement of PVoA varies across age groups but has not yet examined the variability of PVoA endorsement across countries. Considering that context may influence the endorsement of PVoA, we investigated differences in endorsement reported by an international sample of adults (N = 2,902) from the Aging as Future study covering the age range from 40 to 90 years in five countries: Czechia, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United States (US). We focused on endorsement of two types of PVoA, that is, disengagement (older adults should make way for the younger generation), and activation (older adults should remain socially engaged). Overall, participants reported a stronger endorsement of activation compared to disengagement (i.e., a focus on activation). Replicating previous studies, compared to young and middle-aged adults, older adults more strongly endorsed PVoA. Most importantly, cross-national differences emerged, indicating that overall endorsement of PVoA (averaged across activation and disengagement) was the strongest in Taiwan and the weakest in Czechia and Germany. However, the focus on activation (vs. disengagement) was the highest in the US followed by Hong Kong and Germany, and then by Czechia and Taiwan. Cross-national differences in the belief that the State should support older adults, in cultural values, and in views of own aging predicted the focus on activation and partially explained differences in the strength of this focus between countries.

READ TO SUCCEED: HOW BOOK CLUBS CAN IMPROVE INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONS AND FOSTER AGE FRIENDLINESS IN COMMUNITIES

Abstract Intergenerational programming is recommended to improve age friendliness in communities, but there is little empirical research to support its effectiveness (Canedo-García et al., 2017). This project examined whether a multimodal intergenerational book club challenged age stereotypes and reduced ageism among participants (N=41). Twenty-one older adults (61-82) and 20 younger adults (18-22) read A Man Called Ove and met three times to introduce themselves (Time 1) and discuss the book (Time 2 and 3). Before the first meeting and after subsequent meetings, participants completed a survey to assess ageist beliefs and stereotypes. We expected ageist beliefs and stereotypes to decrease across time during the book club program. There was a statistically significant interaction between age group and time on benevolent ageism F(2, 52)= 5.23, p= .009 , partial η2= .167, such that benevolent ageism was more endorsed in younger adults (M=6.64, SE= 2.48, p= .011) compared to older adults at Time 1. This difference was not observed at Time 2 or Time 3 due to younger adults’ decreased overall endorsement. For positive generational stereotypes about older adults, there was a statistically significant main effect of time, F(2, 52)=7.095, p=.002, partial η2= .214, such that both younger and older adults increased their endorsement of these stereotypes from Time 1 to Time 3; similar findings occurred for positive stereotypes about younger adults F(2, 46)=4.53, p=.016, partial η2= .165. Results indicate intergenerational book clubs are an effective means to improve intergenerational relations and reduce ageist attitudes in younger adults.

KINDNESS INTERVENTION AND SELF-PERCEPTION OF AGING: AN INTERGENERATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract Performing acts of kindness can enhance benefactors’ well-being. However, few studies have examined its impact on older benefactors. This study aimed at evaluating this intervention among older adults and exploring “side benefits” beyond well-being. Specifically, given the negative stereotype on older adults as unproductive and incompetent, we hypothesized that acts of kindness could combat against older adults’ internalized negative self-perceptions and enhance their self-concept. We conducted a randomized controlled experiment with 45 participants in the United Kingdom aged 61-80 (73% female). In the experimental condition, for 14 consecutive days, participants recalled up to three acts of kindness they did for others on that day and planned up to three acts of kindness on the next day, as opposed to listing up to three places they were at in the control condition. Surprisingly, our pre-test post-test comparison revealed no significant difference in well-being improvement between the two conditions. Compared to the control group, the experimental group showed an improvement in attitudes toward own aging, especially for their age-related cognitions in the gain (vs. loss) domain. Beneficiaries were mostly family members (34%), followed by community members (25%) and friends/colleagues (21%). For intergenerational acts of kindness, participants reported similar frequencies of younger and older beneficiaries (compared to their age) and provided predominantly emotional (vs. instrumental) support. Taken together, performing acts of kindness may help older adults counteract negative aging stereotypes and see themselves in a more positive lens as productive and competent members of society.

DOES THE FACTS ON AGING QUIZ ASSESS AGING STEREOTYPES?

Abstract The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Report on Ageism urges researchers to develop and validate assessment tools, thus enabling the field to better address ageism. This study assesses the internal consistency and construct validity of a short Facts on Aging Quiz (SFAQ, 10-items). We hypothesize that the SFAQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing aging stereotypes. Data from the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging 2022 Needs Assessment were utilized. Data were collected via an online survey through a convenience sample of the National Aging Network (n=1,910). Three aging perspective tools were included: SFAQ, Expectations Regarding Aging (ERA, 12-items), and the WHO Ageism Quiz (AQ, 8-items). An exploratory factor analysis assessed whether negative (NEG) and positive (POS)-stereotype SFAQ items emerged as constructs. The factor analysis showed that NEG and POS-SFAQ accounted for 31.39% and 19.63% of the total variance, respectively. Cronbach alpha evaluated the internal consistency of the tools. Internal consistency for ERA (α=.81) and AQ (α=.57) were acceptable but low for total SFAQ (α=.28); reliability was acceptable for NEG-SFAQ (α=.71) and lower for POS-SFAQ (α=.40). Pearson correlation assessed convergent validity, with a significance level of p<.0001 (df=1,908) for all correlations. A negative correlation was detected between POS-SFAQ and ERA (r=-.31) and positive correlations between NEG-SFAQ and both ERA (r=.55) and AQ (r=.65), confirming convergent validity. POS-SFAQ was negatively correlated with NEG-SFAQ (r=-.19), suggesting the SFAQ may contain conflicting items. In conclusion, versions of the FAQ may perform better as a tool to assess aging stereotypes.

FEELING VALUED IN OLD AGE: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF THE SOCIAL STATUS IN LATER LIFE

Abstract Subjective social status describes a person’s self-assessed position in a social hierarchy and is an important determinant for mental and physical health. One’s perceived position is dynamically changing across the life-span. Individuals attempt to achieve and preserve status in their social environment. Negative age stereotypes are fueled by and contribute to the attribution of lower social status to older adults. However, little research relates to how status changes and potential status losses are subjectively perceived in older adulthood. In the present study, we used semi-structured interviews to qualitatively identify factors contributing to older adults’ experienced and anticipated status developments. In addition, resources and strategies that are used to maintain relative social status in old age were openly explored. Our sample of 14 East German citizens (mean age = 73.85, range: 67–81 years) reported a highly differentiated understanding of status that included not only socioeconomic factors but also social participation. Experienced changes in status were connected to societal upheavals and retirement. Autonomy and health were reported as important prerequisites for relative status-level preservation. Furthermore, new personal freedoms after retirement entailed empowering opportunities via engagement and other leisure activities for many respondents. Findings implicate that status development in old age may diverge from societal and loss-oriented status expectations if structural support for individual social participation is enabled. In our discussion, we reflect on suitable methodology for studying the construct of social status in old age.

EFFECTS OF SELF-PERCEPTIONS OF AGING ON COGNITIVE HEALTH: MEDIATING ROLE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS

Abstract Cognitive decline is one of the most common age-related stereotypes. The stereotype embodiment theory suggests that negative age stereotypes can be internalized through socialization and become negative self-perceptions of aging (SPA). However, the potential mediating role social relationships play between SPA and cognitive health remains unclear. Using three-wave data spanning eight years (2008/2010 – 2016/2018) from the Health and Retirement Study, this study aims to examine (1) SPA’s long-term effects on changes in cognitive health; and (2) the mediating role of social isolation and loneliness (N = 3,569, Mage = 72.30). SPA was measured by an 8-item scale. Cognitive health was measured by immediate and delayed word list recall. Social isolation was measured using network size, network diversity, frequency of contact with networks, and frequency of social participation. Loneliness was measured using the 11-item UCLA Loneliness scale. We controlled for baseline measures of the dependent variables and health-related and sociodemographic covariates. We found that negative SPA at baseline was associated with memory decline eight years later (b = -0.03, SE = 0.02, p < 0.05). The path analysis revealed that social isolation and loneliness were mediators between SPA and cognitive health, with social isolation accounting for 15% and loneliness accounting for another 32% of the total effects. The results suggest that social isolation and loneliness are pathways by which SPA exerts adverse effects on memory among older adults. Negative SPA should be a target for intervention. In addition, social relationship building could alleviate the impact of SPA on cognitive health.

Are aging stereotypes in the physical domain associated with physical capacities in older adults?

ABSTRACTAlthough the evidence linking aging stereotypes with physical health and functioning appears robust, little is known about how aging stereotypes affect older adults’ physical capacities. Thus, this study examined whether aging stereotypes in the physical domain are associated with walking speed, muscular strength, and balance through subjective age and self-rated health. Three hundred and sixty-three community-dwelling older adults were recruited and asked to complete valid and reliable questionnaires measuring aging stereotypes in the physical domain (i.e., aging stereotypes related to exercise benefits; aging stereotypes about exercise risks; aging stereotypes about psychological capacities), subjective age and self-rated health. Participants’ physical capacities were then assessed (i.e., walking speed, muscular strength and balance). Results revealed that greater endorsement of aging stereotypes, related to exercise benefits, was positively associated with physical capacities through subjective age; and that greater endorsement of aging stereotypes, related to exercise risks, was negatively related to walking speed through self-rated health, to walking speed, muscular strength and balance through subjective age, and to balance directly. Overall, this study provides evidence that aging stereotypes in the physical domain are associated with physical capacities. Therefore, it may be interesting to develop interventions to reduce aging stereotypes about exercise risks and increase aging stereotypes related to exercise benefits to limit the decline in physical capacities.

An Online Learning Experience Simulating Video Telehealth with Older Adults: Student Perceptions.

Older adults are an underserved population with a broad-spectrum of care needs due to multi-morbidity, including increasing rates of mental health conditions. Though a prime target for tele-behavioral health due to access barriers, older adults face a persistent digital divide that necessitates clinician training and education to ensure interprofessional tele-behavioral health is tailored to their needs. This paper presents findings from a simulation learning program designed to teach students about the role of video telehealth with populations with diverse needs. Occupational therapy (OT) students enrolled in a Master's program between 2017 and 2018 conducted a simulated video telehealth session geared for an older adult. Sessions were recorded and annotated by students, who then provided feedback on their experience of the simulation via reflective essays (N = 27). Essays were analyzed using conventional content analysis with themes revealing the benefits of simulation in providing students with an opportunity to experience the often unpredictable nature of video telehealth. Themes also revealed perceived limitations of video and the negative impact of age-related conditions and age itself on older adults' ability to engage in video, reflecting ageist stereotyping and bias as potential barriers to novice practitioners' integration of video telehealth with older adults. Simulation provides students an opportunity to engage in active learning and problem-solving in the moment, fostering students' development of clinical reasoning while promoting reflective practice. Findings reveal the importance of supporting students' recognition of biased attitudes to ensure equitable application of tele-behavioral health care, especially to populations with complex needs.

P126: Older adults’ psychological distress: exploring the role of implicit age stereotypes

Objective:Self-perceptions of aging seem to be a key variable to understand physical and mental health (see the systematic review conducted by Tully-Wilson et al., 2021). Following Levy’s (2003) stereotype embodiment theory, negative attitudes towards aging originate as aging stereotypes (e.g., “older people are frail”; Warmoth et al., 2016) during childhood. They are internalized and reinforced in adulthood, both consciously and below conscious awareness, becoming aging self-stereotypes in old age and affecting self-perceptions of aging (Levy, 2003). Kordnat et al. (2016) developed an implicit association test (IAT; Greenwald et al., 1998) to assess implicit age stereotypes for specific life domains (health and family domains) across the life span and found positive stereotypes towards older people for family domain and negative for health domain. However, the associations between implicit age stereotypes and adults’ psychological distress have been scarcely analyzed. The aims of this communication are: a) to present the preliminary data of the validation of the implicit association test (IAT, Greenwald et al., 1998) to measure implicit aging stereotypes and b) to explore the relationship between implicit aging stereotypes and older adults’ psychological distress (loneliness, guilt associated with self-perception as a burden, and anxiety and depressive symptoms).Methods:The IAT used is an adaptation of the IAT developed by Kordnat et al. (2016). The IAT explores the relationship between the categories of sickness/health and old/young age. The task has a target category that consists of: a) a set of 6 words of physical and mental sickness (e.g., frail, weak, sad, lonely) and 6 words of physical and mental health (e.g., healthy, energetic, happy, in company); and b) 6 photos of old people and 6 photos of young people.Results:Preliminary results of the implicit aging stereotypes task associations with older adults’ psychological distress in 100 community dwelling older adults will be presented.Conclusion:Findings will be discussed. The implicit (below awareness) assessment of the aging stereotypes with the IAT in older adults could provide a better understanding of the role of aging stereotypes in older adults’ psychological distress, avoiding the weaknesses of assessing the construct through self-report measures.

Including drawings in future dementia research: identification and modification of negative stereotyping

AbstractBackgroundMost countries in Western civilization are segregated societies with little or no contact between generations. Elementary schools and nursing homes are separated worlds in proximity. Children alienate further from the elderly and rely on indirect experiences with old age and dementia. The elderly can embody negative stereotypes from media and society leading to disparities in health care, social isolation and loss of functional ability.MethodIn this study we collected 796 drawings from 98 children in 4 elementary schools in Belgium and The Netherlands. The 10‐y‐old pupils made portraits of grandparents and the elderly in neutral, happy and unhappy conditions. The standardized drawing assignments were repeated after a psychosocial intervention program of 16 weeks to connect generations. The effects of non‐pharmacological interventions in Alzheimer’s research are mostly studied with classical questionnaires. These tools are insufficient to detect unconscious motives and subtle mental representations of old age and dementia. Before and after drawings are an added value to the field of research. The implicit measurements circumvent social desirability, go beyond the level of awareness and give a clearer picture of negative stereotypes of old age and dementia.ResultThe content analysis of the drawings demonstrated that children represent ‘happy elderly people’ as: outdoors, active, and surrounded by others, while ‘unhappy elderly people’ are generally portrayed indoors, sedentary and lonely.ConclusionChildren’s drawings as implicit measurement are an added value for non‐pharmacological interventions. The act of drawing is pleasant, easy and effective for the identification and modification negative stereotyping of old age and dementia.

Sexuality in elderly age: stereotypes and possibilities

The research discusses the main ageist stereotypes associated with sexuality in older individuals, as well as presents and analyzes the results of an empirical study of the characteristics of sexual activity in the elderly. This article presents the findings of a study focused on peculiarities of sexual manifestation in old age. The study involved 202 participants, of which 107 (53%) were women and 95 (47%) men, all of whom were residents of the Israeli Center for Psychological Help in Life Crises. The age distribution among the participants was as follows: 62-71 years old – 77.2%; 72-79 years old - 35.4%; 80 years old and older –26.1%. The experiment showed that the subject of sexuality remains relevant for older individuals, and they do not perceive societal barriers to expressing their sexuality. the cessation of sexual activity is found to be directly linked not to age but rather to the absence of a sexual partner or declining health. The study’s results indicate that 62.5% of respondents in committed relationships are sexually active. Among divorced individuals, this percentage rises to 68.2%, whereas widowed respondents exhibit the lowest level of sexual activity at 16.3%, which aligns with expectations.