Research has revealed that the mind, and the images and portrayals we see of ourselves on screen in entertainment and news media, can exert a powerful influence on our aging trajectories. A Harvard study found that adults over 50 with a positive perception of aging had a 43% lower risk of death over a four-year period compared to those who indicated otherwise. In popular culture, however, older adults—especially women who often experience both age and gender stereotyping - continue to be both misrepresented and underrepresented, reinforcing negative attitudes towards aging. Through cutting-edge research driving innovation, diversity in media and marketing, and storytelling-shifting narratives, our panelists will share the power of representation to change how we age.

Moderator

Diane Ty

Senior Director, Center for the Future of Aging, Milken Institute

Speakers

Tracy Chadwell

Founding Partner, 1843 Capital

Stacy London

Style Expert and Menopause Advocate

Stacy L. Smith

Founder, USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative 

Jennifer Wong

Director, Wallis Annenberg GenSpace

Charlotte Yeh

Chief Medical Officer, AARP Services, Inc