Dr Marlene Krasovitsky
In this edition of Let's Talk Ageing, we hear from EveryAGE Counts board member and WHO Global Campaign to Combat Ageism consultant, Dr Marlene Krasovitsky.
Interview summary
Date: 28 June 2024
Dr Krasovitsky talks about the "pervasive and highly tolerated" nature of ageism and the barriers it presents to older Australians, and the importance of public awareness to challenge harmful attitudes, stereotypes, and discrimination.
Read the interview
Who is an older or younger person who inspires you, and why?
My sons.
I always learn new things and gain different perspectives from them. Watching them navigate through life—making conscious choices about what is important to them and acting on those values—inspires me.
I hear about their challenges, some of which I have faced and many that I have not. Sometimes my experience and ideas help, and sometimes they do not.
But we can always share, and I can always listen. They are supportive of me and what I do. They challenge me, and that makes me think deeply. They reinforce what I know—that building understanding and connection across generations helps challenge ageism.
What do you see as the key challenges people face as they get older?
Ageism is a significant barrier to ageing well.
Ageism stems from deeply held, often unquestioned negative beliefs about what it means to get older and about older people.
Ageism is pervasive and highly tolerated. It exists within ourselves—through what we tell ourselves and how we feel about ageing. It also exists in our relationships and institutions.
Ageism has devastating impacts on health, financial security, participation, autonomy, and control over life decisions. It leads to exclusion, discrimination, mistreatment, and inequity.
Ultimately, ageism can make people, and their concerns, invisible.
Tell us about EveryAge Counts and how it addresses these challenges.
EveryAGE Counts is Australia’s national, coalition‑led grassroots movement of individuals and organisations dedicated to highlighting the social, economic, and civic impacts of ageism experienced by older people.
The movement builds public awareness to challenge harmful stereotypes, assumptions, and discrimination. Our vision is a society where every person is valued, connected, and respected regardless of age.
We work together to positively change how we think, act, and feel about ageing and older people, laying strong foundations for current and future generations.
How can others get involved or support this work?
Visit the EveryAGE Counts website and take the pledge to stand for a world without ageism.
Join individuals, organisations, local councils, think tanks, peak bodies, and service providers who are working together to build an Australia without ageism.
Take the “Am I ageist?” quiz, share resources, and start conversations with your family, in your community, or workplace. Join us on Ageism Awareness Day on 9 October.
The more we name and challenge ageism, the better chance we have of addressing harmful attitudes and building a society where everyone can age well.