Every Age Counts



By taking the quiz, you can learn more about ageism and be inspired to be more inclusive, contributing to a society where everyone is valued.

We celebrate older Manitobans who are contributing to a diverse and connected community. Together, let's work to address the social and economic effects of ageism.

START QUIZ

What is ageism? (select the best answer)

Refusing to hire a person from another country.

A

Negative stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination based on age.

B

Viewing older people as out of touch.

C

Not getting a raise based on your age.

D
CORRECT!
The World Health Organization defines ageism as the stereotypes (how we think) prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.
INCORRECT!
Ageism - The World Health Organization defines ageism as the stereotypes (how we think) prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.

Which of the following compliments could be considered forms of ageism?

"You look so good for your age."

A

"He is so young at heart."

B

"You are proof that 60 is the new 40."

C

All of the above

D
CORRECT!
Ageism, like racism, can be found hiding in the subtleties. It's not always obvious. You can find ageism in the sayings we thoughtlessly repeat because they are so common.
INCORRECT!
All of the above. Ageism, like racism, can be found hiding in the subtleties. It's not always obvious. You can find ageism in the sayings we thoughtlessly repeat because they are so common.

In a job interview the recruiter says: "I doubt whether it's worth our while to train someone at your age." Is that illegal?

Yes

A

No

B

Not illegal but is an example of ageism.

C
CORRECT!
It's illegal. Age discrimination is against the law. Investing in training older workers is likely to be recovered. And older workers are generally eager to learn new skills.
INCORRECT!
Yes. It's illegal. Age discrimination is against the law. Investing in training older workers is likely to be recovered. And older workers are generally eager to learn new skills.

What are the advantages of having older adults in the workforce?

Improved financial stability for older people

A

Wider array of job seekers for businesses

B

A larger workforce and economic growth for the province.

C

All of the above.

D
CORRECT!
Half of workers aged 60+ work due to financial necessity. Age-friendly workplaces strengthen the workforce and economic performance of a country.
INCORRECT!
All of the above. Half of workers aged 60+ work due to financial necessity. Age-friendly workplaces strengthen the workforce and economic performance of a country.

If you need to explain something about technology to older people...

Talk slowly and clearly to ensure the person understands.

A

Explain it in the same way you would to anyone.

B

Don't waste your time - avoid conversations about technology at all costs

C
CORRECT!
Many older people have embraced new technology. You can't assume skill level based purely on a person's age. We shouldn't make anyone, at any age, feel belittled.
INCORRECT!
Many older people have embraced new technology. You can't assume skill level based purely on a person's age. We shouldn't make anyone, at any age, feel belittled.

Which of the following is NOT an example of ageism?

Telling someone, you wore that fashion trend the first time so you don't get to wear it again.

A

In a job posting, asking for a recent college graduate.

B

Asking an older person how to be more successful.

C

Lying about your age on your birthday, "I'm turning 29 this year!"

D
CORRECT!
Older people do have more lived experiences to draw upon to provide advice. The other answers all reinforce negative stereotypes.
INCORRECT!
C. Older people do have more lived experiences to draw upon to provide advice. The other answers all reinforce negative stereotypes.

If you hear someone say "most old people live in personal care (nursing) homes," what do you think?

Yes. It's true.

A

No. It's a myth.

B
CORRECT!
The great majority of older Canadians live independently in the community. In fact, 88% of Manitobans 75-plus live in their own homes.
INCORRECT!
No. It's a myth. The great majority of older Canadians live independently in the community. In fact, 78% of seniors live in their own homes.

Which of the following phrases could be considered ageist?

"We're looking for the right cultural fit."

A

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks."

B

"Have you given any thought to when you want to retire?"

C

All of the above.

D
CORRECT!
All of the above phrases could be considered ageist.
INCORRECT!
D. `Cultural fit' is another way to say "young." People do not become less creative or mentally agile as they age. And "Asking about retirement" could be a bad sign depending on the circumstances.

For most people, is it true that mental abilities begin to decline in midlife?

True

A

False

B
CORRECT!
The assumption that older adults deteriorate mentally is a negative stereotype. Most healthy, older people have no trouble learning or remembering, though it may take them a little longer.
INCORRECT!
B. The assumption that older adults have deteriorated mentally is a negative stereotype. Most healthy, older people have no trouble learning or remembering, though it may take them a little longer.

When speaking to a senior, some people use babytalk. They speak slowly and talk in a voice one might use for a child. What is this called?

Phonology

A

Senior Talk

B

Elderspeak

C
CORRECT!
Elderspeak is patronizing. Being spoken to as if you are a child can be depressing, breed resentment and make people feel embarrassed and lonely.
INCORRECT!
C. Elderspeak is patronizing. Being spoken to as if you are a child can be depressing, breed resentment and make people feel embarrassed and lonely.

Which of the following are NOT an example of ageism?

You're so organized. Can you give me some tips?

A

That's amazing -- I can't believe you're still dating.

B

Ah, it's so cute, my gramps got a smartphone.

C

I know a great hair dye that could cover those silver streaks.

D
CORRECT!
Correct! Older people have lived experiences they are often happy to share. The other answers belittle normal things that seniors often enjoy -- dating, new technology and loving their white hair.
INCORRECT!
A. Older people have lived experiences they are often happy to share. The other answers belittle normal things that seniors often enjoy -- dating, new technology and loving their white hair.

Is the phrase `having a senior moment' ageist?

No, it's just a joke.

A

Yes, because it implies all seniors experience memory loss.

B
CORRECT!
Normal aging does not erode your memory. Poor memory recall can affect everyone, of all ages. If you do have new memory lapses that are unusual for you, speak with your doctor.
INCORRECT!
Yes. Normal aging does not erode your memory. Poor memory recall can affect everyone, of all ages. If you do have new memory lapses that are unusual for you, speak with your doctor.
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Thank you for taking the time to complete the Every Age Counts quiz!

Reflecting on how ageism appears in everyday life is the first step to building a Manitoba without ageism.

The next step is to share the quiz with your family and friends.

With your input, we will create a Manitoba where we can all age well!

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