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Description
The aim of the project is to counter the use of elderspeak, i.e. specific and discriminatory language used when talking to older people. Elderspeak violates the dignity of older people. Its main cause is the stereotypical perception of older people. Elderspeak is experienced by more than one third of people aged 60+. More than one fourth experience it in the form of institutional discrimination. Research shows that elderspeak is a manifestation of ageism (age prejudice) and demonstrates that using it when communicating with older people results in those people’s fewer social relationships, social withdrawal, self-stereotyping, less confidence in their own communication skills, a feeling of reduced control over their own lives, and a reduced sense of empowerment. Through social communication and human rights workshops as well as a public awareness campaign, we reduce the causes and scale of the problem. We raise awareness of its negative effects on the social functioning of people aged 60+, improve the communication competences of people aged 60+ and teach them how to respond assertively to elderspeak. We are creating a network of local institutions under the slogan ''We don''t elderspeak here''. We are also conducting a research named "The phenomenon of elderspeak from the perspective of older people". Dissemination of the research report will contribute to raising public awareness of elderspeak and its manifestations, as well as of patronising and discriminatory communication and its consequences for the functioning of older people. The direct beneficiaries of the project are people aged 60+ and people working with older people (320 people). Indirect beneficiaries are the local community in the Łódzkie and Podlaskie Provinces. The project is implemented by the Forum 4 June Association in partnership with the Cultural Association "Pocztówka" from Hajnówka. The partner''s task is to support organisational and information activities in Podlaskie Province.