Richmond seniors schooling students on ageism

In a bid to break down stereotypes, teams of Richmond seniors are going to be presenting anti-ageism workshops to university students.

The new project, led by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG), seeks to dispel some of the negativity surrounding old age, by giving seniors a stronger voice.

Funded in part by the federal government’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, the project is called “Fighting Ageism Through Education and Volunteerism.”

The education component will happen on university campuses, where teams of senior volunteers — who are also developing the content — will present six workshops to the students in the fall.

“Seniors represent a growing proportion of Richmond’s population, but their opportunities to contribute are often limited, due to a false narrative that they’re frail or out of touch,” said Ed Gavsie, president and CEO of RCRG.

“The older adults volunteering for this project are smart, knowledgeable and engaged in community life. They, themselves, offer proof that the negative stereotypes aren’t true.”

The federal government’s Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Jean-Yves Duclos, said the program “helps enlighten university students about the vital and active role seniors play in Canadian society.”

In addition to educating youth about the adverse impact of ageism, the project will give them a chance to interact with seniors on a regular basis — as volunteers.

The idea is that, by volunteering to help seniors, students will gain real life experience with older adults, which will further break down negative stereotypes.

“Students will be able to assist seniors as volunteer drivers, friendly visitors, grocery shoppers, and more,” added Gavsie.

“This project, overall, is a wonderful opportunity to fight ageism, strengthen ties between youth and seniors, and encourage volunteerism.”