Campaigning

Age Concern Stockport is also involved in campaigning about issues that affect people’s quality of life. This is undertaken at a local level and also, through membership of the Age Concern Federation, at regional and national levels. 

Age Discrimination

Part of the work ACS is very involved with is challenging ageism in all its forms. We understand that unfortunately ageism is somewhat ingrained in our culture so we don’t always know when we are doing it! We just want to start challenging it - in ourselves and in others! So here is some ‘food for thought’ for us all. 

Common Ageist Attitudes and Assumptions - TO AVOID

• Assuming that all older people are similar in their needs, regardless of their health, social circumstances, age, race, gender, disability, and personal values and preferences - everyone is an individual.
• Assuming that older people are unable to participate in discussions about their own care, usually because of either assumptions about their capacity to understand or because of a delusion that professionals ‘know what’s best’ for them - people have the right to remain in control of their own lives for as long as safely possible.
• Assuming that older people are less valuable members of society than people of working age - the value of experience and life skills are immense and important.
• Assuming that older people will not want or need to be in peak health - as we live longer staying, or getting, into good health is important for all.  
• Assuming that health problems are 'just your age' - remember the story of the woman who was told by her doctor that her right leg problems were just her age. She rightly reminded the doctor that her left leg was just as old and there was nothing wrong with that! 
• Assuming that older people are less interested in preventive measures to safeguard their health - health promoting activities are important and beneficial at all ages.
• Assuming that older people will, or will not, want specific treatments or services, without asking them. Choice is the right of all individuals. 
• Assuming that people are what they are because they are 'old' - grumpy 'old' person or nice 'old' person. Drop the ‘old’ - they are just grumpy or nice!
• Using 'old' as an adjective - an 'old lady of 83' - A 'lady of 83' will do!