Holiday Gift Guide 2025

Let’s talk about ageism ….

Imagine looking back and seeing sexist and racist jokes in your company’s old ads and editorial. So embarrassing. Part of you would want to say, “Well, those were the times we were living in.”

But a bigger part would wish your publication had been at the forefront, asserting, “This is harmful to humanity, and we’re not going to participate.” You’d wish your good work had helped lead the charge.

Now’s your opportunity. Cut the generational stereotypes. Make it clear that you respect and understand people are individuals, not marketing categories; that you’re aware that euphemisms like “young at heart” and “youthful glow” simply propagate the cultural bias that says only youth is valued; and that you know “anti-aging” is not a thing—because the only way to stop aging is to stop living.

Avoid future embarrassment: Jump in and help lead the age-friendly movement now—especially in Bend, where people of all ages actively thrive. Remember: Age is not the problem; ageism is the problem.

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1 Comment

Margaret McDonald says:

December 3, 2025 at 5:43 pm

Let’s talk about ageism ….

Imagine looking back and seeing sexist and racist jokes in your company’s old ads and editorial. So embarrassing. Part of you would want to say, “Well, those were the times we were living in.”

But a bigger part would wish your publication had been at the forefront, asserting, “This is harmful to humanity, and we’re not going to participate.” You’d wish your good work had helped lead the charge.

Now’s your opportunity. Cut the generational stereotypes. Make it clear that you respect and understand people are individuals, not marketing categories; that you’re aware that euphemisms like “young at heart” and “youthful glow” simply propagate the cultural bias that says only youth is valued; and that you know “anti-aging” is not a thing—because the only way to stop aging is to stop living.

Avoid future embarrassment: Jump in and help lead the age-friendly movement now—especially in Bend, where people of all ages actively thrive. Remember: Age is not the problem; ageism is the problem.