B/OLD: Let’s age together

Date:

July 29, 2024

B/OLD is not just an event; it is an initiative aimed at reshaping the way we perceive aging in
contemporary society. The ACT Lab, in collaboration with the engAGE Centre for Research on Aging, have spearheaded B/OLD and made it into a series of events designed to put age on the agenda, inspire action and change, and bring together diverse groups of older adults. B/OLD aims to challenge stereotypes, address urgent social issues related to aging, and inspire solution-oriented collaborations between the research, community and policy sectors.

B/OLD is designed as a dynamic and inclusive “aging fair” that brings together voices from
various sectors to explore the complexities of aging. The most recent event in 2024 featured a
fully hybrid bilingual program with more than 25 workshops, roundtable discussions, artistic
installations, and performances over the span of eight days. These activities collectively
highlight the resilience, creativity, and contributions of older adults while addressing critical
issues such as age-friendly cities, digital exclusion, ageism and older adult mistreatment, as
well as innovative practices that promote well-being in long term care. Previous iterations (under the name Age 3.0) took place in 2016 and 2017.

Objectives of B/OLD

  1. Challenge Ageism: B/OLD aims to confront and dismantle outdated perceptions of aging by showcasing diverse experiences and contributions of older adults.
  2. Promote Inclusivity: By bringing together a diverse range of participants and building relationships with older adults who are traditionally excluded from universities, B/OLD ensures that multiple perspectives and experiences of aging are heard and respected while building intergenerational understanding and allyship.
  3. Build Collaboration Across Generations and Sectors: The event provides a vibrant space for stakeholders from research, community organizations, policymakers, and the public to share insights and collaborate. It is an ideal venue for students to gain work experience, disseminate their research, and build networks that will empower them to become future changemakers.
  4. Foster Change by Putting Age on the Agenda: B/OLD puts age on the agenda through media and community outreach. B/OLD sparks and amplifies innovative solutions to and critical debates about the social, political and economic challenges faced by older adults.
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