How often do we make assumptions about someone based on their age?

We might assume someone is “too young” to understand something, “too old” to learn something new, or that certain activities, responsibilities, or opportunities are meant for a particular generation. Sometimes these assumptions are obvious. Other times, they are so familiar that we hardly notice them.

Ageism can affect people at every stage of life. It can show up in the words we use, the opportunities we offer, the way we communicate, and even in the expectations we have for ourselves and others. Phrases like “You’re too old for that,” “Kids these days…” or “She’s having a senior moment” may seem harmless, but they can reinforce stereotypes about what people can or cannot do because of their age.

So, what might we notice if we look a little closer?

• Do we make assumptions about someone’s abilities based on their age?
• Do we create opportunities for people of different generations to learn from one another?
• Are we making information and activities accessible to people who may not use technology in the same ways?
• Do we make room for both new ideas and years of experience?
• Have we ever decided something wasn’t “for us” simply because of our age?

At Church of the Apostles, we believe every person has something valuable to offer. Across worship, service, learning, leadership, fellowship, and community outreach, people of different generations help make COA what it is. We continue looking for ways to make those spaces welcoming and accessible, while recognizing that inclusion is not something we check off a list. It is something we practice.

Being inclusive means asking not only “Who is here?” but also “Who might be missing, and why?”

There is no expiration date on learning, serving, leading, growing, or making a difference. And there is no minimum age for having something meaningful to contribute.

How can we make sure every generation has room to grow, participate, and be heard?