What comes to mind when you hear the word aging?

For many of us, the answer is shaped by decades of messaging that focuses on decline, dependency, and loss. These narrow narratives do not just influence how we think about older adults. They shape policies, programs, and even health outcomes across the lifespan.

Fortunately, research tells a different story. Aging is a dynamic, highly variable process influenced by biology, behavior, culture, environment, and our attitudes and beliefs. When we change how we think and talk about aging, we can reduce ageism and support healthier, more inclusive communities.

To support that shift, the North Central Region Aging Network (NCRAN) has released a collection of ‘Reframing Aging” factsheets and reflection worksheets These resources reflect a multi-state Extension collaboration and draw directly from Gerontological Society of America’s nationally recognized Core Elements of Reframing Aging training. By grounding the materials in research and practice, NCRAN ensures that educators have access to tools that are both credible and practical. These tools are designed for Cooperative Extension professionals, educators, and community partners.

This series includes three lessons: 1) What is aging?; 2) Addressing ageism; and 3) How to communicate about aging. One of the strengths of these resources is their emphasis on active engagement and flexibility. The factsheets are meant for learners to read and absorb concepts independently. The reflection worksheets are not assessments or quizzes. Instead, they are conversation starters that encourage participants to connect research to lived experience.

Reframing aging matters because ageism is the most common and socially accepted forms of bias, yet it often goes unnoticed. Research has linked ageist attitudes and stereotypes to poorer physical health, decreased mental well‑being, and higher health care costs. These effects are not limited to later life. People begin internalizing beliefs about aging decades before they ever consider themselves “old.” Extension professionals are well positioned to shift the narrative around aging in their communities.

Webinar on Reframing Aging

A webinar about these materials was hosted on January 9, 2026.  This webinar examined ageism, taught communication strategies, and provided teaching tools. You can view it for free on the NCRAN YouTube channel.