Summary
The purpose of the project is to alter old concepts, stereotypes, and beliefs regarding ageism at a personal level, ultimately enhancing personal and career development for the beneficiaries. In addition, the project aims at promoting the mental health of older women, changing the narrative concerning their abilities and way of life and also, empowering them through an education program specifically designed for their needs. By the end of the program, our beneficiaries will: improve their communication skills; improve their self-efficiency; increase their creativity; boost their self-confidence; improve their interpersonal skills. Finally, the project will promote awareness of how self-directed ageism affects older women as well as how existing culture affects our beliefs regarding older age.
Planning and Implementation
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What was the challenge you were trying to address?
The Association of Women over 40 – The A40s aims at: – combatting ageism, particularly gendered ageism. – empowering women over 40s in their workplace, provide psychological support and assist them in their personal development. – promoting social awareness on matters regarding ageism and gender-based discrimination.
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Who were you trying to impact?
Older people with vulnerabilities, Older women only
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What sectors were you targeting?
Health, Information and Communication
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Who else was involved?
Academia
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How did older people participate?
Older people were part of the process at multiple or all stages
Lessons learned
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Please describe how collaboration worked in your initiative.
The program is run with the collaboration of MindPath Mental Health Services. They provide with the mental health consultation and all psychometric tools necessary.
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What was the impact of your initiative on older people, their families, and/or their communities?
It is a challenging process, dealing with the negative impact your own thoughts have and then combat the stereotypes coming from the people most closely to you. The women involved in the program are beginning to form their own voice and stand up for their rights.
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What issues did you face, and how did you address them?
Women over 40 years of age face multiple discriminations, including sexism and ageism. It is not easy for them to fight their external environment, especially when it is hostile. Restoring the faith in themselves and setting their mindset to creating their own future was the greatest challenge. Mental Health counseling and coaching was our main tool.
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What lessons did you learn from implementing this initiative?
Mental health is an extremely important issue for older women today. Gendered ageism has a devastating impact on older women in most aspects of their lives.
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Do you have any other reflections you would like to share?
The UN Decade of Healthy Ageing was the inspiration for our program. Watching the work and efforts of all contributing organizations, it helped us form the idea and start implementing this program.