Statement from NCOA President and CEO Ramsey Alwin

Contact
Simona Combi
Public Relations Manager
571-527-3982
simona.combi@ncoa.org

Arlington, VA (Feb. 9, 2024)—We are all aging. And as Americans, we all have a stake in deciding which leaders we want to represent us.

Unfortunately, ageism—which is discrimination based on a person’s age—has become a central theme in the 2024 election. In political ads and news coverage, our implicit bias toward aging is on full display.

Ageism is our enemy. It impairs our ability to live our best lives—both as individuals and as a society. Young and old alike suffer from stereotypes such as being 'too young to lead' or 'too old to learn.'

The truth is that aging is a dynamic process. Having served older adults for more than 70 years, we know that aging leads to new knowledge and abilities. It generates experiences that inform our decision making, expands our networks, and deepens our relationships and judgment.

Why not evaluate our political leaders—no matter their age—on these factors rather than stooping to ageist stereotypes that harm us all?

We urge voters, politicians, and journalists to consider the impact ageism has on our nation. It is pervasive, and it stubbornly remains the last acceptable “ism” in our society.

The National Council on Aging is an active participant with the National Center to Reframe Aging to change this narrative. Led by the Gerontological Society of America, along with other national aging organizations, the center is working to advance an equitable and complete story about aging in America.

It’s on each of us to call out and reject ageism whenever and wherever we see it.

About NCOA
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is the national voice for every person’s right to age well. We believe that how we age should not be determined by gender, color, sexuality, income, or ZIP code. Working with thousands of national and local partners, we provide resources, tools, best practices, and advocacy to ensure every person can age with health and financial security. Founded in 1950, we are the oldest national organization focused on older adults. Learn more by following us at @NCOAging.