Challenging aging stereotypesStrategies for creating a more active society

Neighborhood design and active aging

“…This research has rarely focused on special populations, such as seniors (Cunningham and Michael, 2004;Frank et al, 2003;Ory et al, 2003). The history of research in environmental gerontology, or the study of physical environment on older adults, began in the 1960s (Hans-Werner and Weisman, 2003).…”

Contextualizing the Effects of Yoga Therapy on Diabetes Management

“…Studies indicate that physicians are less likely to recommend PA to older adults, that sedentary behavior stems from sociocultural attitudes and prejudice toward aging, and that negative stereotypes of aging influence physiologic function important for lifelong PA. [83][84][85] In particular, it is proposed that biologic changes inherent in the aging process, coupled with societal values and cultural attitudes regarding the activity of older adults, significantly affect the PA patterns of older adults. 83 As they age, women in particular often report a delicate balance among factors such as avoiding the risk of injury, desiring to meet sociocultural ideals for beauty and longevity, and seeking to maintain an independent lifestyle as they pursue PA. Others simply hold subtle societal beliefs that suggest that their aging bodies are incapable of handling the exertion of PA. 83 In a study of community-dwelling men and women aged between 63 and 82 years, investigators reported significant increases in walking speed and other improvements in gait among those who were exposed to positive stereotypes of aging and no changes in those exposed to negative stereotypes of aging.…”

“…84 A recent review of the literature regarding ageist stereotypes indicates that healthcare providers likely propagate aging myths by being less aggressive in both their treatment of conditions and their recommendations for healthpromoting behaviors. 85 In particular, physicians may be less likely to recommend PA, in spite of known benefits, simply because they perceive older adults as having earned rest and repose. 85 Discrimination is pervasive in modern society.…”

“…85 In particular, physicians may be less likely to recommend PA, in spite of known benefits, simply because they perceive older adults as having earned rest and repose. 85 Discrimination is pervasive in modern society. Evidence suggests that anywhere between 70% and 100% of adults report racial discrimination, more than 20% of adults report mistreatment related to weight, and more than 80% of Americans aged 50 or older report experiencing some form of ageism.…”

“…Evidence suggests that anywhere between 70% and 100% of adults report racial discrimination, more than 20% of adults report mistreatment related to weight, and more than 80% of Americans aged 50 or older report experiencing some form of ageism. 78,85,86 Recent research suggests that the internalization of negative stereotypes and discrimination poses a significant threat to health and is related to glucose intolerance, abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure level, and physical inactivity. 68,85,87,88 Although the social stigma caused by perceived discrimination may affect the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors such as PA, this relationship is rarely measured.…”