The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida and the American Society on Aging will celebrate Ageism Awareness Day on Oct. 7, 2023. Modeled after the United Nation’s International Day of Older Persons (Oct. 1), Ageism Awareness Day provides an opportunity to draw attention to the existence and impact of ageism in our society.
“We live in an aging society, which is a wonderful, remarkable thing,” says ASA’s Interim President & CEO Leanne Clark-Shirley, PhD. “But too many of us view aging with fear, denial and even hostility. We are all growing older. We can’t afford to limit ourselves and other people with such negative and harmful views, and why would we want to? Let’s lean into the opportunities, diversity and full range of experiences that come with aging.”
The most widespread and socially accepted form of prejudice, ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.”
Evidence shows ageism is widespread in society and can be found everywhere, from our workplaces and health systems to stereotypes we see on TV, advertising and in the media.
A few facts about ageism, which affects people of any age and harms all:
- There are many forms of ageism, including internalized, cultural, implicit and benevolent.
- Ageism decreases quality of life and can shorten lifespan by 7.5 years.
- Although it is universal, people do not always take ageism as seriously as they do other forms of inequity.
- Ageism intersects with, and exacerbates, all other discriminatory “isms.”
- In the media, underrepresented older adults most often reflect negative stereotypes.
- According to the United Nations, on a global scale, one in two people are ageist.
“The American Society on Aging and our members, partners and allies are raising awareness about ageism and its harms,” adds Clark-Shirley, “so we can each take steps to change how we feel and act about aging. I hope you will join us!”
About the American Society on Aging
The American Society on Aging unites, empowers, and champions everyone working in aging. Since 1954, ASA has developed and led the largest, most diverse community of professionals working in aging in America. As a result, ASA has become the go-to source to cultivate leadership, advance knowledge, and strengthen the skills of our members and others who work with and on behalf of older adults.
For further information about ASA, visit www.asaging.org.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Still Feeling the Affects of Hurricane Ian?
Tell us what you need!
Lee County Unmet Needs Long Term Recovery Group is organizing to help with a community needs survey!
Community partner World Renew is completing free and confidential Community Assessments that are scheduled for Lee County this October.
Surveys are walk-in only. Bring: proof of residency and photo ID are required. Aid is not guaranteed, but this is a crucial step in connecting our community with resources and support.
North Fort Myers Recreation Center
2000 North Recreation Park Way North, Fort Myers, FL 33903
October 16-20 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) | October 23-27 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
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Pine Island Public Library
10701 Russel Rd, Bokeelia, FL 33922
October 18 and 24 (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) | October 20 and 27 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
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FISH of Sanibel and Captiva
2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
October 19, 23, 25, 26 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Ageism Awareness Day
“We live in an aging society, which is a wonderful, remarkable thing,” says ASA’s Interim President & CEO Leanne Clark-Shirley, PhD. “But too many of us view aging with fear, denial and even hostility. We are all growing older. We can’t afford to limit ourselves and other people with such negative and harmful views, and why would we want to? Let’s lean into the opportunities, diversity and full range of experiences that come with aging.”
The most widespread and socially accepted form of prejudice, ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudices (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.”
Evidence shows ageism is widespread in society and can be found everywhere, from our workplaces and health systems to stereotypes we see on TV, advertising and in the media.
A few facts about ageism, which affects people of any age and harms all:
“The American Society on Aging and our members, partners and allies are raising awareness about ageism and its harms,” adds Clark-Shirley, “so we can each take steps to change how we feel and act about aging. I hope you will join us!”
About the American Society on Aging
The American Society on Aging unites, empowers, and champions everyone working in aging. Since 1954, ASA has developed and led the largest, most diverse community of professionals working in aging in America. As a result, ASA has become the go-to source to cultivate leadership, advance knowledge, and strengthen the skills of our members and others who work with and on behalf of older adults.
For further information about ASA, visit www.asaging.org.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Participate in a Research Study of the Wireless Emergency Alert System
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) with FEMA is having a Nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alerts! October 4th!
We are inviting you to participate in a research study. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the upcoming nationwide test of the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system.
Like the emergency alert system that sends emergency information to televisions and radios, the WEA system delivers critical warnings and information to the public on their wireless devices. This may include flash flood, tornado, and missing children alerts, among others.
FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will conduct a nationwide test of the WEA system this fall. The test is scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
Before the nationwide test, we invite individuals with disabilities to join our research panel to ensure your experiences with the WEA test are included. If you join the research panel, you will be emailed a link to the effectiveness survey on October 4, 2023. The survey takes approximately 9 minutes to complete, and it only has to be done once. After completing the survey in October, you will receive a $7.00 electronic gift card. You get to choose the type via Tango Card.
Participation in this study will enhance the development of more effective WEA messages by understanding:
If there is equitable access to WEA, and
Whether messages were received promptly across the nation.
If you agree to join the research panel, you remain free to withdraw from the study at any time.
If you want to join the panel, use this link https://b.gatech.edu/3jpnGwU.
Please share this invitation with friends, family, or coworkers who you believe may be interested in joining the panel. Many thanks for taking the time to read this invitation.
This research is being conducted by Georgia Tech, funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) (Contract number SCON-00000467). Your information will only be used for study purposes, and will not be shared or sold.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Call to Action for Our Community
Our community partner, Healthy Lee, is excited to announce the launch of a vital initiative aimed at assessing, understanding, and addressing the health needs of our community and the related social drivers of health (SDOH). Your involvement will significantly contribute to the success of this effort and our collaborative impact to improve the health and well-being of our community.
They are gathering input from the community through a community survey. The survey is available in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.
Last Updated: July 10, 2024 by Leave a Comment
Be Prepared for Medicare Open Enrollment
SHINE is here to help. To learn about other counseling options, call the Helpline at 866-413-5337.
SHINE counselors are available Monday – Friday to assist you with Medicare’s Open Enrollment and all matters related to Medicare including access to preventive services, cost-saving programs and identifying and reporting Medicare fraud.
To prepare for your SHINE counseling session, review this handout.
Please complete the form and have it available for your counseling session.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Protecting Yourself from Marketing Violations
During Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, you will likely experience more marketing from private Medicare plans, like Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D plans. Companies try to reach consumers in various ways, like television commercials, radio ads, events, mailings, phone calls, and texts. The government has rules though, to protect you from forceful or misleading marketing. Knowing the rules and red flags can help you make the best choices for yourself during Open Enrollment. To learn more how you can protect yourself from marketing violations.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period
Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7 and is the time of year when you can make certain changes to your Medicare coverage. The last change you make will take effect on January 1.
Take action during Open Enrollment to make sure your coverage will meet your needs in 2024.
SHINE will be offering in-person counseling events this fall, more information will be shared in the October newsletter. SHINE can help you make an informed decision for your Medicare coverage in 2024.
Learn more about what you need to know going into Medicare’s Open Enrollment.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
We’re Hosting Our First Community Health & Resource Fair on September 15, and You’re Invited!
As part of our 45-year anniversary celebration, we will be hosting our first Community Health & Resource Fair on Friday, September 15, 2023. The fair runs from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112, Fort Myers, Florida 33196.
Who is this fair for?
Everyone is invited to come and get to know us! Free health screenings, community resources, education, giveaways and more will be available to those 60 and older, adults with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. Free lunch will be provided to the first 25 attendees to arrive thanks to the generosity of sponsors Florida Power & Light and Pacos Tacos. Additional refreshments available for purchase.
Screening and Services
To register for this free event, click on the link.
Funds raised will go toward assisting older adults and adults with disabilities in crisis when no other resources are available. Donations to support older adults in crisis are welcome, visit https://aaaswfl.org/how-to-help/donate/.
Last Updated: August 13, 2025 by Leave a Comment
STORM UPDATES from the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) offices will be closed for in-person visits on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 29 and 30, 2023, in preparation for Tropical Storm/Hurricane Idalia.
The AAASWFL team will continue to be available to assist Southwest Florida residents on the phone and over email. The Elder Helpline hours are Monday – Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.. Please call 866-413-5337 OR 866-41-ELDER for assistance.
Valuable resources to help you prepare for an upcoming storm:
AAASWFL will continue to share updates and resources on social media. You can find the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Want to know how you can help local seniors in crisis? Donate to the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida! Your contribution will help us continue our work in the community by meeting the known and emerging needs of seniors.
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