Caring Across Differences: Ageism, Culture, and Caregiving

Two powerful forces likely shape our caregiving everyday: how we think about aging, and how culture shapes the way care is given and received. Ageism, or culture-based negative beliefs about aging, can lead to older adults being misunderstood, or treated as unable to express their own needs and preferences. At the same time, cultural backgrounds also influence how families define good care, how they communicatee needs, and what support looks like in daily life. This session will explore caregiving situations where ageism and cultural differences affect health, communication, and relationships. Participants will learn simple ways to recognize and challenge ageism, improve communication across cultural differences, and use practical strategies to provide compassionate care so that both older adults and caregivers feel supported.