Intergenerational Ties: Dispelling Ageism Through Education

There are 41.3 million people 65 years of age and older in the US; by 2030 there will be 72.1 million and by 2050 more than 20 percent of the population will by 65 and older. Students need to know about the aging process, not only to know what the future holds for them, but to know how to interact with older adults. Students will be working with older adults in every occupational field they enter. It is important students are able to interact on a proficient and personal level with older adults as the likelihood of interacting and working with this population now and in the future is great. The objectives of this program are: 1) educate students about the aging process through a series of lectures and 2) through one on one interviews, students will learn how to communicate older adults. 3) Teach students normal aging processes. 4) Discourage ageism through education. 5) Teach students proper respect for older adults.