Talking About Ageism: From Media Interviews to Library Workshops
Ageism continues to gain public attention as a persistent and often overlooked form of discrimination. Over the past year, Dr. Dalmer has been invited to contribute to a growing number of conversations across media and professional settings, examining how ageism appears in everyday life, how it becomes embedded in systems, and what can be done to address it.
Her research was recently featured in a segment of CBC’s Spark podcast, hosted by Nora Young, which focused on how assumptions about aging influence the design of new technologies. The interview explored the concept of "compassionate ageism," which refers to well-meaning but limiting design decisions that often reinforce stereotypes about older adults. The podcast episode is available here, and the accompanying article can be read here.
Dr. Dalmer also contributed to an episode of ZoomerTV dedicated to exploring ageism and appeared on ABC Radio National’s Future Tense program in Australia in a segment titled “Saying Goodbye to Ageism.” Both programs highlighted the growing awareness that ageism is not just a problem affecting older adults but a broader social justice concern that touches all generations.
These media engagements have led to further opportunities for impact. Dr. Dalmer has been invited by several public library systems to develop and deliver staff workshops on recognizing and addressing ageism in library spaces. Her workshop series, We’re All Aging! Addressing Ageism in the Library, helps library workers reflect on how age-related assumptions can shape programming, service delivery, and patron interactions. In recent months, she has facilitated sessions with staff at Toronto Public Library, Vaughan Public Library, and Markham Public Library.
Whether in public media or professional education settings, the increased interest in Dr. Dalmer’s work reflects a broader cultural shift toward understanding and confronting ageism. These conversations are an important step toward creating more inclusive communities for people of all ages.