Reducing self-and other-directed ageism in the second half of life

HALFLIFE proposes groundbreaking research to understand ageism (i.e., stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination towards people because of their age) in the second half of life (defined as age 60 and over) to unveil evidence-based interventions to reduce ageism. Unlike other “isms”, we are all bound to experience ageism if we live long enough. The evolving ageing demographics and the detrimental impact of ageism on society at large and older persons alike make the reduction of ageism a public health priority and 1 of 4 pillars of the UN Decade. By moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach, I will develop a theoretically informed, personalised approach to tackling ageism in older persons as agents (targeters) and targets of ageism. The adoption of an intragroup (from within) perspective acknowledges the agency of older persons rather than viewing them solely as victims. This research project will improve the theory and practice of interventions against self- and other-directed ageism among older agents of ageism by identifying the best interventions to reduce self- and other- ageism and recognising the multi-dimensional nature of ageism, including its implicit (unconscious) component. I will advance and integrate theory, research, and practice locally and globally, capitalising on knowledge derived from lay people, research, policy, and practice stakeholders. Relying on an intervention accelerator, I will conduct lab and field randomised controlled tournaments in three countries to develop a portfolio of effective interventions. To ensure the scale-up of the findings, I will develop and support Communities of Practice of practitioners and policy stakeholders at the local and global levels. The project capitalises on my unique position as a core group member of the World Health Organization campaign to combat ageism and as one of 50 UN Healthy Ageing Leaders, as well as on the expertise and dedication of leading researchers and policy stakeholders in the field.