A Pilot and Feasibility Study of the Aging Together Anti-Ageism Peer Support Program

Although the theory of relational ageism describes how ageism is reinforced through interpersonal interactions, it remains unknown whether peer support programs may help reduce ageism and enhance older adults' well-being. We conducted a pilot and feasibility study of a manualized anti-ageism peer support program facilitated by trained older adults called "Aging Together." Key components include peer support, education about ageism and health, and "tell your story of aging." Six small groups of five-to-eight participants (N = 48 total) met for ten, weekly, in-person (60-90 minute) sessions in a U.S. Midwest city. Results indicate the program was feasible and acceptable overall (attendance rate = 88.91%, attrition rate = 6.25%, M acceptability score = 4.23/5). Wilcoxon signed rank tests (N = 28) indicated a significant decrease in relational ageism (M = 2.73/6 to 2.19/6; p ≤ .01) and depressive symptoms (M = 8.61/30 to 6.57/30; p ≤ .01). Future research should scale this program across diverse, geographical settings and explore potential mediating relationships between internalized/relational ageism and psychosocial well-being.