Ageism is how we think about age (stereotypes), how we feel about age (prejudice) and how we behave in relation to age (discrimination). It occurs in systems, the community and within individuals, including ageism directed at oneself.

Ageism impacts older people’s human rights and can lead to abuse and mistreatment.

In a South Australian community perception survey in 2022, more than 50% of older people said they did not feel valued in the community.

Whilst bystander approaches have been widely used globally to address other forms of discrimination such as sexism and racism, applicability of these approaches to addressing ageism is untested.

The Bystander Action for Ageing Well pilot project aimed to test whether bystander action works to address ageism. A training package and workshop series was piloted to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active bystanders to prevent age-related discrimination and disrespect.

85% of workshop participants stated that their knowledge and confidence in calling out ageism had increased as a result.

The Bystander Action for Ageing Well training package targets individuals.
It comprises a Facilitator’s Guide and Slide Deck and contains two modules: Workshop Part 1 – Understanding Ageism Workshop; Part 2 – Tackling Ageism through Bystander Action. The Training Package can be adapted to suit local needs and is currently being rolled out in South Australia through local governments and beyond.
This taster session will showcase the benefits of the Training Package and the resource will be made available to participants after the session.